Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
Photos/Columbia City Music Beat
Beatwalk is back next month with eight venues, a street party, arts and crafts vendors and more–all free!
Meanwhile, Serena’s been reminiscing about the genesis of the South-End’s only live music series that she helped found in 1995.
“Columbia City was very different 23 years ago,” she says. “There were just a few restaurants, and very little going on in the evenings on Rainier Avenue, and it did not feel very safe.”
Over the years, she’s witnessed first-hand an incredible transformation of the area.
“Thanks to a community of caring, engaged and enthusiastic neighbors, a growing business district and fun cultural events like the Rainier Valley Heritage Parade, Columbia City Farmers Market, Beatwalk music festival and much more.”
She says the idea for Beatwalk came out of a town meeting and was the brainchild of Darryl Smith, a local realtor and friend.
“I became one of the founding members and coordinated the event for several years.”
The goal was to support local restaurants and business owners and get neighbors out on the street on a Friday night, to hear music and have a drink or a bite to eat. It quickly became a smash hit.
“I remember one summer night when a hair salon took part and had an amp on the street with an amazing vocalist who worked at the salon,” says Serena. “Lots of local musicians took part and still do. Beatwalk was run totally by volunteers and folks at that time paid $5 to attend. The money went to pay the musicians with the restaurants also chipping in.”
“I have clear memories of locking myself in the bathroom of an Ethiopian restaurant and counting out the proceeds from the night,” she says. It was a very glamorous volunteer job.”
“I couldn’t be happier to watch Beatwalk continue to thrive and grow as with the Columbia City community. Hope to see you at the next one on Sunday, July 9!”
Columbia City Beatwalk Live Music Series
Second Sundays
- July 9
- August 13
- September 10
Photos/Columbia City Music Beat
