Block Party is a sign of spring in Federal Hill

by Mary Helen Sprecher
newsroom@baltimoreguide.com

There are the typical sightings that mean spring. The first glimpse of robins hopping along in Riverside Park. The flash of yard sales cropping up in front of houses. The signs advertising bull roast fundraisers.

Then there are the appearances by Basshound, Buzzy’s Cousins, The Cheaters, Kendra Banks Chocolate Soul, The Reserves and Soul’d Out.

All of the latter are bands. They, plus a few more of their kind, can be seen at the Federal Hill Spring Block Party, scheduled for April 29, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Cross Street, north of the market. The event will go on rain or shine.

According to Bonnie Crockett, executive director of Federal Hill Main Street, there are other bands and other activities—and possibly other special guests—in store for the day, which formally kicks off the outdoor festival season in Sobo after a period of winter hibernation.
The day-long festival includes live music on two stages, vendors, activities for all ages, food, beverages and plenty to draw attention to the attractions of the area.

Applications for vendors are still being accepted, and presently, the organization is looking for volunteers to help in various capacities. Volunteers are needed in two shifts: morning (10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.), and afternoon (2:30 p.m.-7 p.m.) Partial-shift work is also available.

At this point, volunteers are needed to work the admissions booth, sell beer tickets, help sell frozen drinks, and pour beer. All volunteers will receive free admission (a $5 value), a free 2007 festival T-shirt, and some free beer.

Other perks? “Our undying gratitude, and possibly donuts,” according to information posted by festival organizers.

One more note? Dogs are not allowed at the festival.

Those who want to volunteer should contact Bonnie or Anna at volunteers@historicfederalhill.org or 410-727-4500.

Organizers at Historic Federal Hill Main Street note that residents and festival fans should mark their calendars for two other local events, the Jazz and Blues Festival on Sunday, June 10, and the Street Beat Festival on Sunday, Sept. 30. All events are scheduled to be held from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., rain or shine.