Wilmette Block Party coming back for seconds

Last summer’s blockbuster is returning with a sequel.

Event organizers announced Wednesday, May 3, that the second Wilmette Block Party is set for Saturday, Sept. 9.

The Village, park district and chamber of commerce are collaborating on the event, which debuted to much fanfare in 2022 as the flagship event to celebrate the town’s 150th anniversary.

“After the enormous success of last year’s block party, the foremost question heard from residents was ‘Can we do it again next year?’” Village President Senta Plunkett said in a press release. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring the community together once more to celebrate in our wonderful downtown.”

Many details are yet to come, but the event will take over the block of Wilmette and Central avenues, including the Village Hall Green, from noon to 10 p.m. on Sept. 9. Live music, food, drinks and family activities are all planned, the release says.

Last year, the event featured a main stage with multiple live music acts throughout the day. Local organizations, such as school dancer and musicians, also performed during the event. The block party shut down the area for traffic, but local businesses remained open.

More details on this year’s event were not immediately available.

“We are so excited to partner together and bring back this fantastic, family-friendly community event. Everyone should put it on their calendars now, and tell a friend,” said Lindsay Thomas, the park district’s superintendent of operations.

The town will also host the inaugural Wilmette Art Fair on Aug. 5-6 in downtown Wilmette.

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