Our Neighbors: Stroll in Point Richmond, enjoy market

By Chris Treadway
West County Times

Posted: 05/11/2009 07:05:08 PM PDT

Updated: 05/11/2009 07:44:31 PM PDT

The historic Point Richmond business district will launch a weekly farmers market at its first big celebration of the year. The market's grand opening, from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Park Place, coincides with the Point Richmond Stroll.

This year's stroll has been extended by an hour to match the regular hours of the farmers market. Celebrity chef Narsai David will cut the ribbon officially opening the market at 6 p.m. at the Indian Statue.

The 20th annual stroll is a street party in the picturesque downtown, which is closed to vehicle traffic and open to pedestrians for the evening.

The event will feature live music, community tables, food and more. More than 18 businesses and 17 nonprofit groups are participating, along with 20 farmer's tables selling produce. Musical entertainment will include classic rock by the preteen band Crunchy Frog, the Dave Matthews Blues Band and Southern-style funk and blues by Key Lime Pie.

A variety of children's activities will be hosted by the Washington Elementary School PTA; Parents, Resources and More; and the Point Richmond Community Center. Also back is the fourth annual " Jail and Bail" benefit, held by the nonprofit Richmond Police Activities League.

The stroll is a prelude to the annual Point Richmond Summer Concert Series, which will offer live music from 5:30 to 8 p.m. June 12, July 10, Aug. 7 and Sept. 11.

The farmers market will continue offering fresh produce and specialty items from 4 to 8 p.m. each Wednesday.

For details, visit www.pointrichmond.com.