There’s no need to head south for Spring break this year. Downtown Genoa’s got a full week of fun on tap beginning March 23. “It all started with our annual Beach Party which falls the first weekend of break,” says Mim Evans, executive director of Genoa Main Street, Inc. which coordinates the activities. “We realized that we could put together a schedule of activities that would keep kids and adults happy all week. We’ve got a great variety of things happening.”
Genoa’s fourth annual Beach Party, fondly named Return to Margaritaville, begins Friday, March 23 and continues through the weekend. Visitors will find downtown businesses in a summer state of mind. Tropical decorations, real sand to play in, sun lamps, beach music and free warm weather refreshments all contribute to the bright and cheery mood downtown. Shops will also offer great sales to entice shoppers. “I wear aloha shirts and shorts year round, so you know this is my favorite day,” says Mike Groark of Cattywampus/MCR Framing, 228 W. Main Street. “We are working on our beach now. Pineapple upside down cupcakes and coconut rum coffee are on the menu.”
A highlight of the Beach Party is always the Jimmy Buffet Wine Down held at Prairie State Winery Friday evening, March 23. Live Buffet style music and a summer party atmosphere always attract a full house. Seating begins at 5 p.m. and guests are advised to arrive early. Contact the winery at 815 784-4540 for more information.
The Genoa Public Library gets into the act both during the Beach Party and afterwards. The Spring book sale begins Friday evening with a preview from 6-8 p.m. The sale continues on Saturday from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. The library will have a free showing of the movie “Dolphin’s Tale” on Tuesday, March 27 at 2 p.m. Information is available at 815 784-2627.
Found It Gallery and Design Center, 107 N. Monroe Street, also will begin its festivities during the Beach Party and continue throughout the week. Owner Sarah French says “We’re doing tie-dye beach towels, sidewalk art with chalk, building sandcastles on the sidewalk as well as the opening for “street photographer” Paul Burkholder. Lemonade will be available along with popsicles to enjoy.” After the party is over, Found It will offer free recycled arts and crafts all week long. Details are available at 815 501-2375.
J’Studio/Zumba Fitness is the place to go to get in shape for summer. G-K students and staff can take advantage of $2 classes with an ID card. Free Tae Kwon Do classes also will be offered. Everyone is invited to buy 2 punch cards and get the 3rd at 50% off. Contact the studio at 815 793-6439.
Speciality Gifts is looking for teens to model the dresses they have gotten in for Easter, 8th grade dance and prom. Girls can stop by during the week to try on dresses and sign up for a drawing to be a live mannequin during April. The drawing will be held on Friday, March 30. The shop is located at 133 W. Main Street.
For additional information on downtown Genoa events, contact Genoa Main Street at 815 784-6961, e-mail genoamainstreet@atcyber.net or go to genoamainstreet.org. Genoa Main Street, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit organization devoted to promoting and preserving downtown Genoa.
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Save gas. Save on motel stay. And it’s probably warmer up here, too.