Calling all art buffs and street fair aficionados—the Arts and Culture Alliance is kicking off its summer season with a First Friday Block Party that promises to turn the 100 Block of Gay Street into a vibrant melting pot of creativity and community spirit on June 7, from 6 to 9 p.m. True to form, this event marks a continuation of a beloved 20-year tradition, yet it comes with a twist; this block party is an inaugural event following a rather stormy May schedule that put a damper on outdoor festivities, according to City of Knoxville.

With a setup that starts at 6 p.m., locals can expect to dive into a lively mix of musical charms from The Merlin’s Nest and Nief-Norf Percussion Ensemble, and for the visual art lovers, there'll be plenty to gawk at with more than 20 local artists setting up shop with vendors to boot, and let's not forget the inside scoop—the Emporium itself will play host to an array of new exhibits featuring the Fountain City Art Guild among others.  As reported by the City of Knoxville, those planning to drive in should note, that parking meters on the 100 Block will be out of service, bagged at 2 p.m. to remind the motorized crowd to move their trusty steeds elsewhere, and for the parking-savvy, DowntownKnoxville.org, and the Parkopedia app are there to guide you to the nearest spot.

Not familiar with the Arts and Culture Alliance? Well, they're the brains behind the First Friday events spanning two decades, and their headquarters is nestled right at The Emporium, 100 S. Gay Street, orchestrating a wealth of creative endeavors from their downtown Knoxville HQ. As Gay Street transforms into a pedestrian paradise from Jackson and Vine avenues between the hours of 4 and 10 p.m., the cultural tapestry of the city will unfurl under the open sky, inviting participants to weave into its rich and ever-evolving story.