Ninth Street once again became an entertainment district on Saturday, May 20 as Arkansas’ FlagandBanner.com and the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center hosted “The 9th Street Block Party.” In celebration of Arkansas Heritage Month, sponsored by the Department of Arkansas Heritage, the street was blocked off at West Ninth and State Streets and filled with musicians, artists and food vendors, and was a lively scene for families and people of all ages.
Entertainment and activities scheduled throughout the day included:
- Jazz blues, gospel, and hip hop musical acts
- Performing artists
- Memory Booth – locals brought their stories and photos of the 9th St community which was documented on film by Dempsey Film Group of Little Rock
- Local and regional artists
- Community information from Little Rock Fire Department and MEMS Ambulance Services
- Food from Pokey D’s, Margo’s Diner and Vino’s
- Kid’s activities
- Free admission, popcorn, cold drinks and cotton candy
Ninth Street, anchored by the Mosaic Templars Headquarters Building and Taborian Hall (now home to Arkansas’ FlagandBanner.com), was a thriving arts and entertainment district during the first half of the twentieth century. The modern organizations joined together to host an event that highlighted that legacy. Arkansas Flagandbanner.com offers commemorative Dreamland Ballroom t-shirts for promoting awareness of the historic dance hall.
Everyone brought their blankets and lawn chairs and enjoyed an entertaining day!
