South Street Fest kicking off in Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philly's favorite block party is back! South Street Fest kicked off at 11 a.m. Saturday and the weather couldn't be better.
It's going to be a beautiful day to spend outdoors.
No one does a block party quite like Philly. And on South Street street there's a little bit of something for everyone.
The festival is along South Street from 2nd Street to 8th Street. Music, people and art flowed through.
"I think after the year that we've had I think we're really excited to show people that South Street is still here, still celebrating," Sarah Cowell, South Street Headhouse District said.
It's a celebration of three festivals in one, including a traditional German fest, a Comic Book Day and a Kentucky Derby-themed event.
But among all the food and vendors, Shaun Durbin's art stood out as people stopped by to get a glimpse. He showed us his artwork on the temporary walls in front of Jim's Steaks following a fire last summer.
"It's a landmark on South Street, Jim's Steaks. So, what better way to honor them by putting up some artwork as they repair the building," Durbin said.
Aside from his own creations, the artist got festivalgoers involved by painting their names on the mural.
"He painted my name on the mural which was really sweet," Lisa Taglialavore said.
Durbin is hoping his art can bring brightness into the community.
"I think there are too many reasons for us to have a frown on our face due to all of the violence and we need a pick me up," Durbin said.
From police to local business owners to artists, it's a pick me up that can be felt by many in the community.
There will be plenty of screens displaying the Kentucky Derby which is set for this evening.
On 8th Street, one of the German beer halls will have traditional dancing and face painting. And new this year they're having a South Street artist row.
Over 20 artists will be out here sharing their craft with anyone who comes down here. They're focusing on woman artists and people of color.
This is the second South Street Festival held since a shutdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year's festival was held in October.
"Last October was incredible," said Dana Feinberg of the South Street Headhouse District. "Because it was sort of the breakout year for South Street Fest. We had to postpone it three times, and then on the day that it rolled, it was spectacular. That gave us an indication that this is where the fun needs to be, right on South Street."
There is a stage on the east end of the festival by The Twisted Tail - there will be music all day.
The event goes until 7 p.m. tonight.
If you're coming into city from the suburbs, getting around might be a little tricky.
Not only is this festival happening, but also Walnut Street is shut down for the Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival that one goes from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
