CHAMPAIGN, IL – Taylor Street in downtown Champaign will transform into the first-ever “Toast to Taylor Street” block party and festival on Saturday, October 2, 2021, from 2:00 to 10:00 PM. Festivities include live performances from local musicians and talent on stage and an open-air artist and crafter market. Festival-goers can enjoy food and drinks from the businesses on Taylor Street like Farren’s Pub & Eatery and Cowboy Monkey and craft beer from Blind Pig Brewery, Riggs Brewery, and Triptych.
“We have a close-knit business community downtown,” said Carolyn Farren, owner of Farren’s Pub and event organizer. “The idea to have a block party came out of different businesses and neighbors working together.”
Live entertainment starts at 2:00 PM includes performances from Anthony Gravino, Killborn Alley Blues Band, New Souls, Ian Shepherd & Friends, Modern Drugs, and a Drag Show Finale presented by Peach of the Midwest.
The open-air market features vendors like The Wright Soapery, Hunny Bunny Bakes, stilllife. by serena, Brother Yeti’s Shirts & Pins, Carol Alison Studio, FRESHASSMONK, Ecelctic Lady, Katrina Catizone, J.Gil Fitness, Fire Doll Studio, Art Coop, Inc., and Pura Vida Pets.
“Taylor Street is a perfect outdoor venue to showcase all of the businesses and artists that make Champaign great,” said Kayla Brown, owner of Fire Doll Studio and event organizer. “We are grateful to the community and we wanted to celebrate!”
The event is presented by Farren’s Pub, Cowboy Monkey, Blind Pig Brewery, Champaign Center Partnership, Fire Doll Studio, Perennial Sound Studio, Behemoth Durable Goods, and Before Brand.
Vendors and performance line-up can be found on the event’s Facebook page. For more information, please contact the Champaign Center Partnership at 217-352-2400.
