08 Sep New Orleans flair coming to Downtown Rock Island
To celebrate the end of a lively summer of outdoor events in the Quad Cities, River Music Experience (RME), Downtown Rock Island and Bix Jazz Society are teaming up to present the NOLA Block Party from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 18, featuring nationally recognized New Orleans-based jazz band Tuba Skinny.
In addition to the brick-and-mortar bars and restaurants in Downtown Rock Island, Pee Wee’s Restaurant and Tacos Al Vapor will be serving food at the event. Gate and food vendors open at 6 p.m.; music starts at 7 p.m.
The event on the Great River Plaza (2nd Avenue pedestrian mall) is free and open to all ages. Donations will be accepted to raise funds for the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s Hurricane Ida Disaster Fund. The event is sponsored by Illinois Casualty Company, Holiday Inn Rock Island, Rock Island Brewing Company (RIBCO), Daiquiri Factory and The Arena.
“It’s rare the Quad Cities has a chance to present a jazz band of this caliber, especially outside of the summer Bix Jazz Fest. It’s even more exciting to be able to present the show for free, thanks to all the sponsors,” said Tyson Danner, RME’s Executive Director. “Working with the Quad Cities Chamber through its partnership with the City of Rock Island and downtown businesses has made this possible. It’s a perfect example of the kind of great experiences we can create in the Quad Cities when we build partnerships and work together.”
“As we work to revitalize Downtown Rock Island, this is a prime opportunity to activate the Great River Plaza with world-class entertainment, draw people to hard-hit downtown businesses and celebrate the closing days of summer in the Quad Cities,” said Jack Cullen, the Chamber’s Downtown Rock Island Director. “I’m grateful to RME for their partnership and support as well as our downtown businesses for teaming up to make this happen.”