By Eleni Manousogiannakis, Executive Director
Kenmore Boulevard came alive on Saturday, June 7, 2025, as the neighborhood hosted its first ever BLVD Block Party. From 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., the stretch between 13th and 16th Streets was transformed into a vibrant hub of activity, showcasing the community’s spirit and creativity.
The day kicked off with the Kenmore Cowbell 7K, followed by a lively parade. The range of groups walking in the parade was just right for our community after having missed it for so long. Families then enjoyed a pancake breakfast at the Masonic Lodge, while the Kenmore Branch Library offered a petting zoo and kids’ crafts to the sounds of the Rubber City Yukes. Select stories of Kenmore were told in the ambience of The Rialto Theatre. For the more adventurous, canoe rides on Summit Lake were available, providing a unique way to experience the area. With so much to do, Kenmore got hungry and ate through 400 pounds of potatoes from just one food truck! There’s always room for dessert, and sweet teeth headed on over to Treat Street.
Art enthusiasts explored The BLVD Collective pop-up art gallery, featuring works by Kenmore residents that were mentored by local artist Althea Jones. Framed art from Miller South School for the Visual & Performing Arts students adorned usually empty windows and Firestone High School students displayed their creativity while listening to a flautist. The Kids Zone kept younger attendees entertained, as a big inflatable and carnival games usually do, and the Beer Garden offered a place for adults to relax and socialize. Additionally, the Big Love Living Room provided a quiet space for nursing mothers and those seeking a moment of calm. Other calmness was found through yoga sessions at The Center Dance and Yoga.
Music was at the heart of the celebration, with performances throughout the day. The lineup included youth acts from Lange Music Studio, followed by award-winning children’s musician Mr. Jeff. Later in the afternoon, local bands Talk Less and The DollyHoppers took the stage, culminating in evening sets by Rachel Brown and The Beatnik Playboys and Umojah Nation, offering a diverse musical experience for all ages.
The BLVD Block Party highlighted Kenmore’s ongoing transformation into Music Row. With its blend of music, art, food, and community spirit, the event underscored the neighborhood’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and creative environment for all. It was nice to see Kenmore Boulevard busy during the day and more of the community able to enjoy the event. Some even shopped at businesses for the first time after just learning about them that day. This is the heart of why we do what we do.
The rest of the summer season schedule is as follows:
- Friday, July 11, 6pm-9pm (yes, the second Friday)
- Friday, August 1, 6pm-9pm
- Friday, September 5, 6pm-9pm
Keep an eye and ear out for Boo on The BLVD in October and Light The BLVD in December!
Made possible by donations and volunteers, with a special thank you to Cargill, Acme Fresh Market and the Kenmore Chamber of Commerce. Help keep these events free by making a donation today. Any amount helps.
For more information and ways to get involved, visit www.betterkenmore.org