First Friday block parties start

Looking for a place to hangout tonight?

Try South Third Street.

In an effort to revitalize downtown, a tight-knit group of business owners started a monthly block party.

“Music, art and a darn good time,” promised Mary Clymer, owner of happy delusions, which sells local arts and crafts.

Friday at 6 p.m., she plans to host an art show by Joey Katzer alongside chalk art displays.

Expect the street to fill with music, as several businesses plan to host local musicians and DJs.

The block party came out of a smaller monthly party hosted by neighboring businesses Liberty Cafe and happy delusions called First Friday.

“This is the first time we’re doing it as a block party,” Clymer said.

It didn’t take much for local businesses to jump in.

“Everyone on this block is pretty close,” said Common Ground Cupcake’s Crystal Roberts.

Liberty Cafe scheduled a DJ and conga drummer John Uysal until about 10 p.m.

“You don’t need to seek elsewhere for entertainment,” Clymer said.

Restaurants are offering specials on food and drink, and DC’s Bar & Grill plans to host TRx’s Nich Sullivan for DJing.

Common Grounds Cupcakes is offering free “DTR” (downtown Renton) cupcakes with the purchase of a drink and is hoping for a local musician.

The block party is on South Third Street between Wells Avenue South and Main Avenue South.

“Everyone on this block is pretty close,” said Common Ground’s Crystal Roberts.

Details:

First Friday Block Party

6 p.m. until late, Aug. 7.

South Third Street between Wells Avenue South and Main Avenue South

Live entertainment and food and drink specials.

For more information dtrfirstfriday@gmail.com.