An estimated 500-600 people attended the free “Beach Party” hosted by Historic Downtown North Wilkesboro (HDTNW) on Friday July 31, at the Ruritan Park in downtown North Wilkesboro. According to Melissa Smithey, Executive Director of HDTNW, the purpose of the event – in addition to having fun – was to draw people downtown and promote a growing awareness of what downtown North Wilkesboro has to offer.
The well-known beach music band Billy Scott and the Party Prophets played a variety of beach and other dance music from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 pm. Following the beach band, the group Matt Bizzell and the Red Belly Dance performed another free concert until after 10:00 pm.
The event was a family-oriented block party, with a sand-box and beach balls available for children to enjoy and decorations reflecting a beach theme. Several members of the Wilkes Shag Club demonstrated their shag dance steps at the dance area on 10th street. Shaggers from Elkin were also present to enjoy the party. Food and beverages were available on the street from Key City Grille.
Ms. Smithey said that the success of the event means that next year HDTNW might host regular block parties in downtown North Wilkesboro throughout the summer if sponsors can be found to help defray the cost of the events. Associated Brands, Inc. was a sponsor for this year’s event.
To learn more about the work of Historic Downtown North Wilkesboro or to discuss sponsoring future events, contact Melissa Smithey at (336) 667-4875 or visit the HDTNW website at www.DowntownNorthWilkesboro.com.
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Wilkes County Cruisers
