Why the Punta Gorda Block Party on Marion Avenue?

Back in 1885, Kelly B. Harvey laid out the streets that would one day become Punta Gorda. One of those streets was a main street that quickly became the commercial hub of the growing pioneer town - Marion Avenue.   Marion Avenue is our main street.  The people who originally planned a 100-year birthday party for the City in 1987 chose Marion Avenue for the core of the celebration because it had that history and because it would bring people back downtown, and that is why thereafter the Punta Gorda Block Party has been there.

The original party headlined by Minnie Pearl succeeded beyond all expectations, bringing in many first time visitors downtown as well as uniting the community on both sides of the river to celebrate the good life here in Charlotte County. Over time, the Block Party quickly became one of the most unique Punta Gorda events not duplicated anywhere else and the biggest and best One Day Event in all of Southwest Florida. It became a principal source of funds for non-profits, service organizations, schools, youth and school sports teams as well. Crowds come from all over to this event and enjoy the entertainment.There have been over 80 non-profits who participated over the years. Many of these groups have had their biggest fund raiser of the year at the Block Party. Click here to see the list of those that have benefited over the years from having this event..

Those who say this event has past its time miss the point.  They also miss the point if they think it can be relocated somewhere else.  Communities across the country are now holding "open street" events.  They have realized the power of allowing citizens to take back their streets from automobiles for a day - to allow them to wander down and enjoy the main street of their town.  I will never forget one day when I was living in New York and a huge snowfall forced the City to close Broadway.  With a group of co-workers we walked down Broadway in the street - it was an awesome feeling.  It's important to give Punta Gorda and its visitors that feeling at least for one day out of 365 a year.  Tell city council you want the Block Party on Marion Avenue.  Let's all go dancing in the street - our main street.