Larkfest Good for Business in district

This year's Larkfest was a success for
Central District businesses.

For the first time, the end of summer music festival extended up Washington Avenue, along the Townsend Park, giving nearby businesses the chance to participate--a chance they welcomed. Next year, they say, they'll have a better idea of what to expect and how to capitalize on the opportunity.


Viverth Peart, owner of the Golden Choice, a Caribbean Restaurant, said the festival has great potential, and next year he'll be even better prepared for it. Next year, he'll make arrangements in advance with his regular customers to help get them here. He also wants to run a sound system outside, and play some West Indian music, which he thinks will be a draw to the restaurant.


In the middle of the day, crowds ambled down the tree-lined street, enjoying the music and taking advantage of the park's benches as the smell of Indian food from Shalimar's outdoor stand wafted through the air. It was busy, but not as crowded as Lark Street, and people seemed to be glad to get around the corner and escape from the crowds a little. "We have now seen how this can work for our businesses and we will be gathering feedback and adding new ideas to grow the new area next year", said Anthony Capece Central BID Executive Director.


Mark Smith said Larkfest represented a great opportunity for his new business, Townsend Park Bakery Cafe. "It's exposure, and that's ultimately what it's all about," he said. He welcomed customers into his new bakery day, he said.


On the new Townsend Park Stage, Cirque de la Nocturne wowed crowds with their mix of dance and gymnastics, and Taina Asili y La Bande Rebelde got everyone moving with their high-energy Latin music.


"We did good business," said Betty Smith, Owner of Chase Boutique, a clothing and jewelry store in the district. The stage at the end of the block brought crowds down the street, and that had a positive impact, she said. She only wished the music on the stage had lasted a little longer, explaining that as soon as the stage was broken down at 4, the crowds migrated back to Lark Street. "Next year, we need to have more participation," she said.