Christmas in July for Third Thursday
| Wednesday, Jul 20 2011 04:36 PM
Last Updated Wednesday, Jul 20 2011 04:38 PM
Third Thursdays Faire in the Park
When: 5:30 p.m. Thursday
Where: Central Park at Mill Creek, 21st and R streets, and surrounding area
Information: 325-5892
Sidle up to The Porch
If you've got a story to tell -- and who doesn't -- head over to the Bakersfield Museum of Art, which is hosting its story-telling contest, called The Porch. The theme of the monthly throwdown is "It didn't go as I planned," said the BMoA Assistant Director David Gordon, who is hoping for 10 storytellers when the contest commences at 7 p.m. today.
Stories must be true and though they certainly can be funny, this isn't a stand-up routine. No rambling allowed; the story must have a beginning, middle and end. A big Porch finale of all the finalists is scheduled for later.
Even as temperatures rise again, we can say it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas -- at least in the Mill Creek area. This month's Third Thursday will celebrate its Christmas in July theme with festive performers, a toy drive and a visit from Saint Nick himself.
That jolly man will be clad in shorts -- it is July -- and will help conduct a water balloon toss, according to Downtown Business Association president Cathy Butler.
That game will take place in the kids area, which also features the pillow bounce, rock climbing wall and park play equipment.
Fun for children is also the focus of the the Toys for Tots drive, which will be taking contributions Thursday. Butler said Marines will be on hand at the KERO-TV Channel 23 booth to collect toys or other donations. Those "first to fight" are also first to collect this year, having kicked off their annual drive early at a Channel 23 mixer, Butler said.
Pinpoint Dance Academy, which has been active in the Third Thursday events this summer, will deck its performers in holiday garb for their late-afternoon performance across from Mexicali.
Other entertainment will include Planet G, young Greenfield musicians who will perform in the side area outside of the Bakersfield Museum of Art; and "cool jazz," hosted by the Black Chamber of Commerce, performing at Adobe Krow Archives on 18th Street.
If you'd rather be part of the dancing than watch it, head over to the Bakersfield Community House, which again will host the Boot Scootin' Boogie. Butler said moving the event last month was a big success.
"It was packed. The whole area came alive. People were line-dancing. With the building there, it doesn't interfere with the family fun at the park."
Martin's Meats and Deli Market will again provide the barbecue, which can be washed down with a beer from Advance Beverage Co. Pasta Fazool also returns with its Pasta and Wine on the Patio.
Golden West Casino is cashing in on the adult fun by hosting blackjack and Texas hold'em games for prizes.
Those looking to make it a family night can choose from a variety of foods, from Juicy Burger to Goose Loonies, or stick to simple treats like snow cones.
With food, entertainment and general fun, Third Thursday is all about showing residents what the Mill Creek and surrounding areas have to offer.
"We're creating excitement and life in the area," Butler said. "We're letting the community know what's there."
With a possible eye on incorporating the Bakersfield Condors and the businesses in the cottages off Truxtun into the mix of upcoming events, the DBA is looking to capitalize on the success of Third Thursdays and First Fridays.
