The Party in the Park initiative, offered through Champions for Change’s downtown revitalization committee is back for another summer.
Although there will only be two events featured this year, the fun is set to begin soon, as a mid-day concert featuring a variety of local artists prepare to take the stage on Wednesday.
“It’s summer, and we need to have a little bit of fun in the downtown,” says Penny Fox, chair with Champions for Change. She says there is a smaller volunteer core this year, so fewer concerts will be held.
On July 22, Clarence Smith will take the stage at the park located next to the Foundry building, and he will also help make sure the show runs smoothly. Also featured on stage will be musicians from the Calvin Vollrath Fiddle Camp, and local musician Jarrid Poitras.
“We have so much talent in the St. Paul area . . . we want to give them an opportunity to get out in the community.”
A unique portion of the show will include an introduction to laughter yoga, presented by Patricia Goertzen.
“It’s something different,” says Fox.
The outdoor show will begin at 11:30 a.m. and wrap up at about 1:30 p.m.
Along with music, there will also be some healthy treats to try. The Thrive on Wellness committee, another group under the Champions for Change umbrella, will be on hand serving Tabouli (a Lebanese salad), and a carrot and parsley salad.
Parsley is being grown in the barrels located around St. Paul, a project that aims to encourage healthier eating.
Another event coming up this summer will take place on Aug. 26. A street dance will feature local band Boomtown from 7 to 9 p.m., also at the park on main street next to the Foundry.
“It’s kind of a wrap-up to summer,” says Fox, adding. “It’s just a great time to visit with friends and neighbours, meet someone new.”
Fox says the Town of St. Paul has been a big supporter of the Party in the Park program, along with the Porozni family, which owns the lot on main street where the parties take place.
Both events are being offered free of charge, but those attending are asked to bring along their own lawn chairs to enjoy the entertainment.
