The 600 block of Central Avenue in downtown St. Petersburg was recently dubbed the city’s new arts district. Between redevelopment and revivals, a collection of more than 30 new businesses – including art and design studios, music outlets, film studios, galleries, boutiques, and a public journalism organization – have opened up … and business is boomin’. To celebrate the creative “neighborhood” and the grand opening of the newly renovated Crislip Arcade, there’s going to be a banging 600 Block Party this weekend. Attendees can dance to the sounds of Loungecat, Fall on Purpose and DJ Mega, stroll the sidewalk and pop into galleries for the Art Walk, and watch the fashion show that features designs from boutiques on the block. Also on the agenda is the BLUELUCY Gallery’s presentation of Compute This: An exhibit of paintings, prints and products (pictured). It’s innovative and progressive. It’s colorful and soulful. It’s becoming one of the hottest spots in town … and it’s a freaking party. So go. 6-11 p.m. Sat., May 8, between Sixth St. and Seventh Ave., St. Petersburg, free, thesixhundredblock.com.—Lily Reisman
This article appears in Apr 28 – May 4, 2010.