SYRACUSE -- It's in a new location and has a new name but the promise is the same, and that's good outdoor entertainment in Syracuse every Thursday night through September 10th.
Thursday night kicked off the Market Block Party held at the Regional Market. For the past three years the event was held at the Inner Harbor. Organizers changed locations because last year it rained on many Thursday nights and so it was muddy at the harbor. Plus the new arena offers more parking spaces and in the event of rain the party will move into tents. It's free to get in and listen to the bands.
Promoter Michael Banks says with the tough economy he expects more people will come out as folks stay close to home this summer. He also says it's a party in progress. "It's a lot bigger than what we had before and we're still working on getting some more vendors out here to fill up the parking lot," Banks says. "We're also talking to some sporting stores to try and get some activities for the people who come out here."
For many it is an opportunity to gather with friends have something to eat and drink, and listen to music. And do it in a space that's more open than in previous years.
"I like the Inner Harbor," says Samantha Froio of Cicero who came out to the block party Thursday night. But Lori Beck of Kirkville says she prefers the new location and says it's easy to get to off the highway.
The big question that will be answered this summer: Will the new location bring in the crowds.
