Peekskill's Restaurant Row Summer Block Party Weekend Series has been bringing people out in the city throughout the summer.
The party is set for Saturday, Sept. 20, at 3 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 21, at 1 p.m. with performances at 6 p.m. The party takes place on North Division Street between Central and Main Street.
The street is closed to traffic, providing a large venue for patrons to dine al fresco and take in outdoor performances. The event has been organized by Sol Miranda, who helps run EMBARK Peekskill.
Arne Paglia, who runs Division Street Grill in Peekskill, said it is good to have community event like this.
"It's a collaborative effort by everyone," Paglia said. "It's nice to have this entertainment and to have the community come out. It doesn't cost the city any exceptional expenses."
EMBARK did surveys that found people wanted to go to Peekskill, visit the downtown and enjoy live music.
"It sends a positive message out about Peekskill," Paglia said. "There are so many activities happening in the downtown. It brings a lot of life here. People like to be outside and dining in this area. It's one more way to enjoy the city. This promotes the spirit of the city."
Jeannie Credidio, owner of 12 Grapes, said the block party has been an exciting addition to Peekskill.
"It definitely brings people into the streets," Credido said. "They go into different shops. We have tables in the middle of the street on the sidewalk. People get to enjoy really nice dining and listen to music."
Credido said it is a nice environment for people to have food and a bottle of wine.
"You can hear the music and then come in and continue to party," Credido said. "This is a unique thing in all of Westchester. I don't know of any town that has a pedestrian walkway like this. We've been discussing this for years. It's amazing how beautiful Peekskill is and what it has become.
Credido said Peekskill has become a haven for food lovers.
"The perception of Peekskill has improved," Credido said. "The more people hear about it, the more people come."
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