Previously known as Pape Village Summerfest, the festival produced by the local BIA, has been rebranded as the “Pape Village Block Party.”
The festivities took place Sept. 16, from noon to 8 p.m., on Pape Avenue between Mortimer and Gamble avenues.
This anticipated event had fun for all ages, with live performances from local musicians, a car show, multiple food vendors, and a kids’ fun zone.
Pape Village, established in 1986, is a multi-cultural, pedestrian-friendly shopping district, is home to over 80 businesses, most of which participated in the block party.
Gustavo Scolieri says his band, Gustaü & PdD (an acronym for Puente del Diablo), has played many festivals in the past, and when he was given the opportunity to perform for the Pape party he didn’t hesitate to get on board.
“I would hope that the party brings unity, pleasure, and happiness to this diverse community,“ Scolieri said.
Azam Faisal, CEO of Zoomys Juicery, said his business felt obligated to give back to the community by helping organize and streamline the festival.
The juice bar was also excited for the event taking place in the community, even though the block party was a new concept.”
The Block party always brings our community together. It is the focal point and highlight of all the businesses in the area that look forward to it every year,” Faisal said. “It is also a great moment to showcase what we offer — to visitors and our neighbouring communities alike.”
Although businesses in the community looked forward to meeting potential customers, some owners were also excited to showcase their other talents.
“By being a Musician I got to showcase my talent, which helped my business in two ways,” said Ducrey “Pepe” Everton of Pepe’s New Look, a barbershop on Pape. “I showcased myself as a musician, and also ‘I know this guy, he’s a barber.'”
The Pape Village Block Party is to become an annual event, according to the BIA.