This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Salt Lake City's Granary District is having a coming-out party on Saturday, and everyone is invited.
The neighborhood is conducting a block party at the corner of 800 South and 400 West from 3-9 p.m.
Christian Harrison, one of the event's organizers, said the purpose is to showcase the area bounded by 600 North, 200 West and Interstate 15, an area populated by "passionate artists, passionate foodies and blue-collar, hard-working people."
"We want to go from the idea of a neighborhood to the reality of a neighborhood," said Harrison, who hopes to see the block party become an annual event.
The block party is the idea of James Alfandre, director of the nonprofit Kentlands Initiative. The Initiative promotes "New Urbanism," aimed at showcasing neighborhoods as thriving places where people live, work and enjoy themselves.
With the city's Redevelopment Agency turning its attention to the district, Harrison said it is important for developers and others to see it not as a blank slate, but a thriving, diverse neighborhood, complete with "delightfully quirky people."
Harrison said the block party serves two purposes: to get the neighbors to know each other, and acquaint the rest of the city with an area few bother to notice.
Harrison said Alfandre noticed that there was not a sense of community in the district.
Those passing by on Interstate 15 may only see the industrial buildings, but the neighborhood is home to the Frida Bistro restaurant and Kilby Court, a music venue and record label.
And the block party is aimed at highlighting the area's distinct flavor.
Harrison said there will be food provided by Frida Bistro, Chow Truck and other vendors. He said there will be produce for sale and Salt Lake City Councilman Carlton Christensen will sell flowers.
Two stages are planned for live music, as well as face-painting and other activities.
Harrison said the Utah State Rail Museum is planning to lend a railroad handcar that people can try.
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If you go
The Granary District block party will be at the corner of 800 South and 400 West from 3-9 p.m. on Saturday. Bicycle parking will be available.