Gresham’s ‘largest ever’ Third Thursday heralds Festival of the Arts weekend

Gresham’s signature event, which brings hundreds of artists and thousands of visitors, all began with the biggest Third Thursday ever.

Thursday, July 18, perfectly set the stage for the newly named Gresham Festival of the Arts, a three-day extravaganza that transformed downtown. It ran from 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Like all Third Thursdays, which are hosted monthly by the Historic Downtown Gresham Business Association, the July edition had local businesses and restaurants offer specials and extended hours. But what made the Arts Fest version better was some additional fun.

Organizers closed down Main Avenue, creating a massive block party in the heart of downtown. While visitors strolled, there were artist and vendor booths to explore and shop at.

Dustin and Andrea Rose performed on the main stage; a magician wowed a crowd at one street corner; Sugar Cubed Cakes had free mini cupcake decorating; The Hoppy Brewer had a tap takeover by Boneyard Brewing and live music; Gresham Police passed out sticker badges to kids; Alejandro’s Mariscos & Bar poured margaritas on Main; and Boccellis Ristorante hosted a comedy show at the Center for the Arts Little Theater.