A Block Party of the First Magnitude: The Spontaneous Fun of a Street Fair Staged with the Distinctive Opulence and Style of Palm Beach, All Benefitting a Good Cause
When venerable Palm Beach throws a party, rest assured, it’s an impeccably staged, traffic-stopping event. And indeed, the celebration was seamless and nary a car was in sight on April 5 as throngs of well-heeled guests, primed for an evening of signature gourmet fare, entertainment and eclectic shopping, crowded a six-block stretch of Dixie Highway for an Evening on Antique Row.
For the past 30 years, the event has been a special night that bars traffic and allows guests to meander freely through the notable design, art and antique treasure shopping hub—while enjoying gourmet cuisine, fine wine and a plethora of luxe experiences–and potentially walking away with a few cherished finds. It’s a one-of-a-kind block party blending lively celebration and charitable spirit that only this town can throw. And it all benefits the educational programs of Historical Society of Palm Beach County. This year’s event drew a crowd of over 2000 guests and the participation of 40 area shops to take part in the festivities.
Exploring a World of Antiques, Creativity and Design
Merchants kept their doors open late and welcomed guests with warm hospitality, complimentary gourmet treats and unique insights into the varied offerings that fill their spaces —often to the brim. With colorful printed guides to map out their journeys, visitors made their way through streets lined with all manner of creative home and design-themed shops, from dealers of rare antiques, limited edition furniture and fine art to custom upholstered goods and specialized architectural elements.
Many shops took advantage of the balmy weather to show offerings outdoors. Smart thinking–because the merchandise easily caught the eyes of guests, later balancing multiple shopping bags along with their plates of gourmet bites and drinks.
Shopping Amidst Seasonal Spirit
A special stop was Monaco Home Interiors, filled with all manner of eclectic furniture and design finds, which was truly decked out in Easter finery with spring pastel accents and whimsical seasonal bunnies, chicks and colored eggs throughout. Guests lined up in front for frothy drinks in similar pastel-colors flowing from enormous glass jugs, continuing the springtime theme.
Champagne Anyone? . . . Yes, Please
At Heath Lighting and Lampshades, guests clanged a ship’s bell mounted on the entry door beaconing a hand emerge to deliver a glass of fine champagne—surprise! Inside, occupying every corner and crevice, a world of lamps, lighting and accessories unfolded, which was sure to include the perfect item –if not for you, then for someone else.
As diverse as the shopping opportunities, a mélange of entertainment and interactive experiences combined signature Palm Beach opulence with local color. Guests admired top-of-the-line motorcars, the stylish rhythms of the Soul Movement Dancers, solo violinists and a complete local orchestra serenading the crowd with classics. A range of pop-up shops and activations offered a glimpse at tomorrow’s trends by showcasing blossoming Palm Beach area businesses.
The evening’s journey was punctuated with complimentary culinary and beverage stations offering creative bites from local restaurants and chefs, as well as sips and cocktails from fine wine and top-shelf liquor vendors to toast the evening.
Under the Tents: Food, Fun and Festivity for All
Under the featured Tropical BBQ & Boots Tent, more serious appetites were sated with tempting tropical grilled chicken and pork with all the fixings. A live country band, line dancing, liquor tastings and more had people stomping their feet and enthusiastically dancing, bringing to life the novel touch of a full country entertainment experience.
Elsewhere, glamour was presented through a nostalgic lens, as A Night with the Rat Pack tent area recreated a classic Italian lounge experience with delicious Italian delicacies, martinis and a Rat Pack tribute performance.
Those who opted for the full VIP experience enjoyed a mix of elevated dining, full hosted bar, live DJ sets and a parade of late-night fashionable guests. The extra hour of partying gave attendees plenty of time and space to spread their wings, party, dance and enjoy.
Benefitting the Palm Beach Historical Society The annual event is presented by the Young Friends of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County. Proceeds support the organization’s growing list of educational programs. These are provided free to the children of Palm Beach County, in schools, online, and at the Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum. The programs have benefitted nearly 800,000 children since 2003.