Shelby to host uptown block party

Uptown Shelby Block Party.

Shelby's uptown block party is back this year with an all day bash that will include live music, food and family fun.

Uptown Shelby Association announced the return of the Uptown Block Party and promised to be bigger and better than ever.

The Uptown Block Party, inspired by the Five O’Clock Block Parties of the 1990s, has always been a celebration of the local community.

The event, which will take place on Saturday, May 18, will feature three bands, a variety of food and retail vendors and a Kid Zone that offers fun for the whole family.

Starting at 11 a.m., and going until 9 p.m., attendees can look forward to a Saturday filled with non-stop entertainment. From beach to rock to country and pop, there will be something for everyone.

Local band Ocean Blvd kicks off the live music line-up at noon, followed by too MUCH SyLviA at 2 p.m., and The Tonez at 6 p.m.

This year's Uptown Block Party will include an increased number of vendors with community partners, snack and drink sellers and uptown businesses locating on Washington Street, creating a diverse marketplace for attendees to explore. From food to retail offerings, there will be plenty to discover. People can also enjoy the vibrancy of uptown Shelby’s restaurants, retail shops, and bars, all open to the public.

In addition to the bands and vendors, the Uptown Block Party will also feature a Kid Zone, which will include face painting, free balloon art and games for the whole family.

Last year, the Uptown Shelby Association said it tested the waters with a smaller version of the Uptown Block Party, and the response from the community was overwhelmingly positive.

According to a press release, despite rescheduling due to rain, the event was a success, and it was clear that there was a demand for more music-filled celebrations on Washington Street.

"With the decision to put Shelby Alive on hiatus, Uptown Shelby Association promotions committee saw an opportunity to expand the Uptown Block Party into a summer kick-off that would bring the community together in a whole new way," the release said.

For more information about the Uptown Block Party, please visit the Uptown Shelby website www.uptownshelby.com , call 704-484-3100, or follow Uptown Shelby on social media.

This article originally appeared on The Shelby Star: Shelby to host uptown block party