Welcome to The 109 Cultural Exchange – Where Downtown Comes to Life

Where stories are shared, joy and inspiration sparked, and neighbors connect through creativity and culture.

Located in the heart of downtown Saline, The 109 Cultural Exchange is more than just a venue—it's a community-powered space where creativity, conversation, and culture connect. Managed by Saline Main Street, The 109 hosts a variety of events: art shows, comedy nights, workshops, live music, theater, educational forums, and joyful community gatherings.

Whether you're looking to explore new perspectives, showcase your talents, or connect with neighbors, The 109 could be your stage.

We encourage artists, educators, nonprofits, and residents to propose programming that brings people together and adds vibrancy to our downtown. At the same time, Saline Main Street curates special events—like comedy nights, game nights, and cultural celebrations—that keep the calendar lively and inclusive.

We are also available for private rentals, such as wedding or baby showers, birthday dinners and more!

Whether you're hoping to program a workshop, an art show, a private event, or just about anything else, just scroll down for all the information.

Come add your voice to the downtown story.

Mission Statement

The 109 Cultural Exchange is a community-driven venue in the heart of downtown Saline, dedicated to fostering creativity, cultural exploration, and connection. We offer opportunities for inclusive, accessible programming that enriches our local identity, strengthens our downtown economy, and welcomes residents and visitors alike to share in the power of art, dialogue, and experience.

Programming Policies & Procedures

Programming Policies & Procedures Guide

I. Purpose of Programming

The 109 Cultural Exchange exists to:

Draw consistent foot traffic into downtown Saline
Provide cultural and creative experiences that may not otherwise be available
Celebrate underrepresented voices and perspectives
Complement—not compete with—existing downtown offerings
Create opportunities for local connection, education, and enrichment

II. Guiding Principles

All programming at The 109 must be:

Mission-Aligned: Advancing creativity, connection, and culture
Collaborative: Favoring partnerships with local creatives, businesses, and nonprofits
Non-Competitive: Offers a distinct focus or style different from existing downtown services, enhancing—not duplicating—what’s already available, unless in partnership
Inclusive & Equitable: Centering access, affordability, and diversity of voices

III. Programming Categories

· Art exhibits, performances, and creative workshops

· Author readings, panel discussions, and open mics

· Cultural celebrations and awareness events

· Educational classes or community-led forums

· Fundraisers and nonprofit awareness events

· Fun, engaging, and community-building events that bring people together and spark joy downtown

IV. Event Proposal Process

Proposal Form Submission – Individuals or groups submit a Programming Proposal Form.
Review Process – A Programming Subcommittee reviews proposals monthly for alignment and scheduling.
Downtown Coordination – If offerings overlap closely with other local businesses, Saline Main Street will initiate contact to collaborate or adjust.
Short-Term Use Agreement – Approved hosts sign a use agreement outlining responsibilities and expectations.

V. Community Consideration

Saline Main Street prioritizes trust-building with local businesses.
If concerns arise, we commit to:

In-person dialogue
Assessment of concerns
Transparency in programming decisions
Actively seeking partnerships to reduce duplication and build mutual support

VI. Inclusion & Accessibility Commitments

ADA-compliant space
Sliding scale or no-cost participation when possible
Diverse representation in content and leadership
Promotional materials that are welcoming, clear, and affirming

VII. Evaluation & Feedback

Each event includes a post-program feedback component
Data and insights are used to evolve and improve programming
Feedback is shared with the host and Programming Subcommittee

For questions or to discuss an idea please Contact Us

Thinking about hosting an event at The 109 Cultural Exchange? Please read our USE AGREEMENT first. (For both public & private events)

Read the Use Agreement

If you have an idea for a workshop, art show, performance, etc, fill out this application - either the paper version or via the link for online.

Download a PDF Proposal

Fill out a Proposal Online

For a private party or event (not open to the public, and not a ticketed event) please download and fill out this application:

Fill out an Event Rental Application

Welcome to The 109 Cultural Exchange – Where Downtown Comes to Life

Where stories are shared, joy and inspiration sparked, and neighbors connect through creativity and culture.

Thinking about hosting an event at The 109 Cultural Exchange? Please read our USE AGREEMENT first. (For both public & private events)

If you have an idea for a workshop, art show, performance, etc, fill out this application - either the paper version or via the link for online.

For a private party or event (not open to the public, and not a ticketed event) please download and fill out this application:

Events at The 109