By Veda Jo Jenkins

June 25, 2010

Permalink to Article: http://www.pbpulse.com/events/2010/06/25/delray-makes-hot-night-hotter-at-art-jazz-fest/

The CRA of Delray Beach knows how to bring out the community. Cutting the ribbon on the new Southwest Fifth Avenue Plaza added one more stage to the Art & Jazz Festival on Thursday night. Performing for the grand opening was the Joe Wright Band and the Pure Justice and there was free Wii and Rock Band nearby.

On Atlantic Avenue, Main Street is closed down to traffic at Swinton but open to strolling. Diners at Cugini Grille swore they were listening to Neil Diamond as Neil Zirconia had the women up and singing “Sweet Caroline” by the end of the night.

On one block Palm Beach Lamborghini showed off their magnificent classic cars, while on the next block solo guitarists Eric Hanson created music of his own.

Block after block offered music by the Jim Kovalcik Trio, Groove Merchant and on Old School Square, Strictly Business. Even Billy Bones and his son Justin Trapani, age 13, performed outside at Bru’s Room.

With music, art, free putt-putt golf and tennis and even dance lessons by Virtuous Productions, there was something for everyone. Veterans from the Korean War and the Lions Club were handing out free balloons and young performers got a chance to be a star.

Delray is doing it right. From being pet-friendly, even allowing chickens, to free parking, the nightlife can’t be beat. Just when you’ve seen it all there is Elvis playing at Johnnie Brown’s.