The countdown is on for the return of the popular Fridays on Front block parties.
Fridays on Front returns to the Front Street Mews for six block parties this summer. Each licensed event features food, live music, children’s activities and more.
“Fridays On Front is more than just a feast for the senses, it's a celebration of connection and togetherness,” said Jaydee Dimmer-Drew, events and marketing manager for the Downtown New West BIA. “Whether you're seeking a delicious meal, a dance-worthy groove, or simply the joy of spending quality time with loved ones, Fridays On Front offers something for everyone. So, gather your friends and family, and join us as we come together as a community to celebrate what make New West an amazing place to be.”
This summer’s Fridays on Front events are taking place on July 12, 19 and 26 and Aug. 9, 16 and 23. The free block parties take place from 5 to 9 p.m. in the 600 block of the Front Street Mews (the road running alongside Front Street in downtown New West).
“We will have a wide varieties of food truck that serve delectable cultural dishes and cool treats to make each night its own culinary adventure,” said Dimmer-Drew. “Our entertainment lineup each night will be centred around a theme.”
Themes for this year’s Fridays on Front events include: Retro 80s & 90s Rewind; PRIDE New West; and Fiesta Latina.
The BIA invites folks to drop by Fridays on Front to get a bite to eat, check out the vendors, and enjoy live music. Steel & Oak Brewing Co. will be attending the block parties.
“Get ready to raise your glasses because we are fully licensed, teaming up with our pals at Steel & Oak to keep the good times flowing,” said a news release from the BIA. “Plus, Family Place will be on hand with a variety of free, family-friendly activities to keep the little ones entertained while you soak up the summer vibes.”
Details about each week’s themes and food offerings will be posted on the event’s website. Food trucks slated to attend include: Shameless Buns; Wakwak Burger; Reel Mac and Cheese; Frying Pan; Taco ‘N Todo; Spanish Cravings Taverna; Yo-Bones BBQ; Indish; Kona Ice of Chilliwack; Little Ooties; Rocky Point Ice Cream; and Crema Ice Cream.
Fridays on Front is hosted by the Downtown New West BIA and presented by Douglas College, in partnership with the City of New Westminster, Tourism New West, and the Port of Vancouver.
While the BIA is sad to announce that Car Free Day Downtown New West will not be returning this year, Dimmer-Drew said it is collaborating with TransLink to incorporate elements from Car Free Day into its 2024 Fridays on Front.
“Like Car Free Day, Fridays on Front allows attendants to enjoy the Front Street Mews areas as car-free zone, allowing attendees to freely roam the streets without the worry of vehicle traffic,” they said in an email to the Record. “Encouraging attendees to use alternative modes of transportation, such as walking, cycling, or public transit, aligns with the spirit of Car Free Day. We will have I’s on the Street on site to collect recycling and speak to attendees about how their work contribute to a cleaner Downtown New West.”
