As we wrap up summer with the last issue of August (though autumn doesn't officially begin until 4:18 p.m. on Sept. 22), we have one last celebration before the frost falls. It's been our custom the past few years to introduce the Annual Manual and the Madison's Favorites choices at a block party on East Main Street. This year we've moved the party a week later and one block over. We invite you to attend the first King Street Block Party on Saturday, Aug. 29, 3 p.m.-midnight.
Sponsored by the Great Dane Brew Pub, our good neighbors at the corner of King and Doty, and the Business Improvement District of Downtown Madison Inc., the celebration has grown in length and comprehensiveness - there'll be something for almost everyone.
The action kicks off at 3 p.m. with an afternoon of kids' activities. DJ Nick Nice starts right in with Baby Boogie, his special music program for dancing kids. The Aldo Leopold Nature Center will be there with nature activities for young environmentalists, and the Madison Mallards speed-pitching setup will be available, along with other games and contests. Shrunken Heads and the Black Lights will showcase the state of rock 'n' roll among the teen and preteen set.
At 7 p.m., the transition begins to adult party mode. There will be a program acknowledging the Madison's Favorites winners, to be followed by Blueheels, a popular alt-country band. DJ Nick Nice, Madison's Favorite club DJ, returns, filling in between bands with his playlist for grownups. The evening will end with the sounds of VO5, a disco tribute band.
Throughout the event a coterie of our neighborhood food purveyors will treat you to the Taste of King Street. And our only clothier, Context, will be holding a sidewalk sale. There's lots more on the agenda; check out the ad on the inside back cover for more details. So it's Saturday on King Street, with Sunday as the rain date. But it's not going to rain.
