The Near Westside Initiative (NWI) will hold its second annual Multicultural Block Party at Skiddy Park, Thursday, Aug. 18, from noon-9 p.m. Residents, employees and community supporters of the SALT District are invited to attend the block party to celebrate the positive changes in the Near Westside–from restored homes to renovated warehouses and growth opportunities.
The event is sponsored by the NWI, La Liga (Spanish Action League), La Casita Cultural Center, ProLiteracy and PEACE Inc. Last year, more than 800 people enjoyed the first block party. That number is expected to grow this year, thanks to the partnership with La Liga.
“This is an exciting time for us and is our favorite event of the year,” says Maarten Jacobs, director of the NWI. “It’s a time for neighbors to enjoy themselves and be reminded of the amazing work that’s happening in the community. It’s a time of reflection and celebration of the transformation that’s occurring on the Near Westside.”
For nine hours, Skiddy Park will be transformed into a fun park for kids and adults to get to know each other and learn about what’s happening in the community. This year’s program will include live music from Son Boricua, a DJ Showcase, a neighborhood showcase, plentiful food and drinks, bounce houses and games for the kids, and a neighborhood awards ceremony. The night concludes with a performance by Jazz in the City. The event is open to all in the community to enjoy.
The schedule for the Near Westside Multicultural Block Party:
Noon: DJ Showcase kicks off the block party.
1 p.m.: Youth entertainer featuring juggling, music.
2 p.m.: Live Music Showcase.
4 p.m.: Multicultural Parade around Skiddy Park.
4:30pm: Neighborhood awards and announcements.
5 p.m.: Live music from Son Boricua.
7 p.m.: Jazz in the City starts.
For more information about the Near Westside Multicultural Block Party at Skiddy Park, contact Maarten Jacobs at mjacob01@syr.edu or (315) 480-7678.
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