The popular Downtown Gloucester Block Party series begins July 16 when Main Street transforms into a mall packed with entertainment, dancing, art and craftworks and assorted vendors. Diverse restaurants offer dining al fresco and food to go. The series celebrates Gloucester the third Saturday of each month, July through September.
The Block Party Committee is pleased to announce Valerie Marcley as the Artistic Director and Coordinator. Cape Ann’s Marcley produces New England’s only Fringe performance festival, the Seacoast Fringe Festival in Portsmouth, NH, and is a board member of the Manchineel Chutney Theatre. She worked in concert production with Boston jazz legend Fred Taylor; at the Opera House Theater, Stonington, Main; the USVI Theater of St. John and at WFNX-FM and WBZ-AM, Boston.
Marcley is indebted to the hard-working team that created the summer series three years ago. “Without their expertise, enthusiasm and dedication, we wouldn’t have such a dazzling and fun event as the Gloucester Block Party! It’s clear that they are avital spark to the future of our unique downtown. These folks had an ideal vision that continues for Gloucester.
“We are currently seeking performers, vendors and volunteers to help us have some ‘wicked fun’!’” Those who wish to take part in the event, please contact Val at: glostablockpahty@yahoo.com .
“The Downtown Gloucester Block Party is an opportunity for our restaurants and businesses to be creative and strut their stuff,” states Marcley. “We urge participants to get imaginative with specials, contests and eye-catching displays to showcase their businesses and entice clientele.
Each Downtown Gloucester Block Party starts at 6 pm July 16, August 20 and September 17 and is free of charge. Rain dates will be the following Sunday.
