DAVENPORT, IOWA (May 7, 2020) — The Downtown Davenport Partnership, a division of the Quad Cities Chamber, today announced changes to Street Fest to be held July 24-25, 2020. Instead of hosting a large festival on 2nd Street in Davenport, the event will encourage people to support downtown businesses that normally benefit from the festival’s foot traffic by shopping, eating, drinking, playing and, in the case of hotels, staying in downtown.
“We understand that everyone is looking for an opportunity to come together with friends and family this summer, and Street Fest during Bix 7 weekend has traditionally been a Quad Cities homecoming event,” said Jason Gilliliand, Events Director for the Downtown Davenport Partnership. “This re-imagined Street Fest will still allow people to celebrate their hometown region, while following state guidelines for social distancing.”
“As the public health guidelines around the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, we will be able to adapt as things change,” said Gilliliand. Plans with businesses downtown are being developed, with several that normally host their own events this weekend indicating they are making plans for this year. Promotions and events will be announced in the coming weeks.
“Businesses are continuing to adjust their operating models, and this is yet another example of their flexibility and tenacity. We encourage you to come downtown during Street Fest weekend because businesses need our support more than ever,” concluded Gilliland.
The Downtown Davenport Partnership also is supporting area businesses with a special local shopping drive-thru event featuring specials at multiple downtown Davenport businesses, 1-4PM, Saturday, May 9. Shoppers are strongly encouraged to place orders at businesses in advance of the event in order to be able to pick-up curbside or via drive-thru while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
The event also will feature curbside concerts presented by River Music Experience (RME) throughout the downtown area and a local food drive organized by One Eighty at Union Station, 120 S Harrison St, Davenport.
For a complete list of participating vendors and their specials, visit Downtown Davenport Partnership online at downtowndavenport.com or on Facebook (@downtowndavenport).
