Every fall for the past three years, CAMP Rehoboth Community Center hosts a giant block party in the legendarily gay-friendly beach town.
This year’s event, on Oct. 14, will be held in concert with (pun intended) Rehoboth’s Jazz Fest Weekend. Following a Thursday-through-Saturday series of concerts, shows and jazz performances in almost every restaurant in town, Baltimore Avenue will come alive with a street-party atmosphere from noon-4 p.m. Sunday.
Last fall, more than 1,000 people turned out. This year promises plenty of room, food and goodies to serve an even-larger crowd.
Expect more food vendors, and entertainment than ever, with a second-performance stage added to the event. In addition to the stage in front of the CAMP Rehoboth Courtyard, a West End Stage will have nonstop entertainment near Second Street at Aqua Grill restaurant.
Local favorite Anna Rexia again will emcee, this year assisted by Fancie P. Charmington.
In addition, Clear Space Theatre performers will sing from their repertory of musical.Candice and Justin of The Family Jewells and the rocking and rolling Girlfriends band also will perform.
Chanteuse/mixologist Holly Lane will be on hand, no doubt with some Parisian melodies. Audiences will also be treated to the lightning piano craft of Matt Kenworthy. Rounding out the roster are the hilarious Purple Parrot Bird Cage Bad Girls, who are a tradition all their own, with more entertainment to be announced.
What’s a party without food? Loyal vendors who have been at the Block Party all three years will be back again with hot dogs, overstuffed sandwiches, fish and chips, tacos, pizza and gourmet goodies.
Browse the arts offerings from a host of artists and galleries showcasing paintings, photography and more. Shoppers can have a field day with home accents, T-shirts, fine clothing, jewelry and lots of surprises. There’s even a bounce house for the youngsters. Information about health, travel, investing and car-buying will all be available. And the Delaware Humane Association, will show off four-legged candidates for family membership.
Philadelphia’s own Delaware Valley Legacy Fund, a leading funder of the area’s LGBTQ community, will also be on hand. Stop by and find out more about the organization, which has already given more than $1 million in grants to LGBTQ causes.
Entry to the giant Block Party is always free, but donations to CAMP Rehoboth are appreciated. Visitors can donate on the website (camprehoboth.com) or at all street entrances to the party.
CAMP Rehoboth board president Chris Beagle said the event highlights the power of community.
“We are very excited about the increase in artisans this year and seeing the Block Party continue to grow. This event truly embodies community and what Rehoboth means by room for all.” n
For more information, go to camprehoboth.com.