Rock the Block: Summer Music at Al’s Falafel
Images by Brette Little
Faced with a dwindling social calendar in light of covid-19 cancellations throughout the summer, we were overjoyed when we saw a local businesses getting creative with circumstances under our “new normal.” Presented by Al’s Falafel & Fries, the Wednesday Block Party brings live bands to the outdoor stage next to Al’s food cart on Rainbow Road for seven glorious weeks over the summer.
Alex Lyons from Al’s said these block party plans had been in the works for a while, and they certainly found the silver lining in the situation as more bands were available and excited to play:
“The idea has been a long time in the making and is more despite covid circumstances than because of it. Fortunately, we have enough space to social distance (BC regulations require a 3m buffet between the band and the audience as well as 6ft between tables.) Perhaps covid did push us a little in so much that it created a situation where performers are excited to play, even to a small audience. We have been blessed to be able to continue serving the public and have actually been busier than ever this year.”
Here are some tips for making the most of your Block Party experience:
Arrive on time: show up promptly at 4pm to find your favourite spot.
Bring your own chairs or a picnic blanket and settle in on the field across from the stand (especially recommended if you have children!)
Have a dog? Feel free to bring your well-behaved pooch along for the party.
Review Al’s Falafel Covid-19 Safety Plan before you go. Take physical distancing measures seriously as these parameters are a vital condition that restaurants in our community must follow in order to remain open.
All of the food from Al’s Falafel is served in takeaway containers for easy transport to your band-watching location, and there is a hand-washing station on site.
The remaining schedule for the summer is as follows:
August 12 - The Seiche
August 19 - Suzanne Gay, Jim Shultz + Honey
August 26 - Edgar Hann + Em Walker
September 2 - Table 25
The Wednesday Block Party runs from 4-6pm each Wednesday until September 3, at Al’s Falafel food stand at 151 Rainbow Road across from the elementary school. Space around the band stage and falafel stand is very limited so please come prepared to create your own, physically-distanced area on the field or roadside.
