Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

For 15 Thursday nights each summer, a portion of Marion Street closes for a community gathering not unlike Oak Park’s popular block parties.

In its 10th year, Downtown Oak Park’s Thursday Night Out features food and drink items at more than 20 restaurants, a beer and wine tent, live music and the opportunity to dine al fresco on Marion Street between Lake Street and North Boulevard.

Anna Wilson, DTOP’s communications director, said the event has taken on more of a block party-type vibe in the past year or two. She said they’ve heard that even children talk excitedly about the weekly event, eager for the next Thursday.

At the July 20 Thursday Night Out, band Rico performed Afro-Cuban, Latin, rock, reggae and R&B hits.

Shanon Williams, Downtown Oak Park’s marketing director, said the event always sees an increase in attendance over the previous year; she estimated turnout was up 10 percent from last year.

“I’m always shocked every year by how many new people come out,” she said.

Wayne Vidallo and his family are new to Oak Park; July 20 was their first time at TNO. After they ate, he watched his 3-year-old son, Remy, play with toys set up on the WonderWorks table.

“I’m glad that we finally got the chance to,” Vidallo said. “It definitely won’t be our last time.”

Members of the band Rico bring their Afro-Cuban inspired funk to Marion Street during Oak Park's Thursday Night Out.
Members of the band Rico bring their Afro-Cuban inspired funk to Marion Street during Oak Park’s Thursday Night Out.

Williams said local organizations and nonprofits — like WonderWorks and Wright Ride on July 20 — have shown interest in taking part in the event, as it’s an easy way to connect with the community.

“You’re definitely getting the local people out for this,” Williams said.

She believes the diverse selection of music — with the summer line-up featuring jazz, flamenco, swing, indie rock and more — has contributed to the event’s popularity.

“It’s really powerful to see,” Williams said of the wide-ranging crowd the event draws each week.

On the recent humid night, neighbors and friends filled the street, conversing over their meals and laughing over a beer. Tricia Johnson and John Ramirez of Oak Park said the opportunity to enjoy food and drink in the street drew them out.

Since tables and chairs are hard to come by, Johnson said they learned that lesson: “After the first time, we realized we better bring chairs.”

Families lined up for twisted creations from the balloon artist; toddlers splashed in the fountain, jabbing at streams of water while parents snapped photos.

Malik Jawid, owner of Khyber Pass restaurant, has taken part in Thursday Night Out since it began. He said it’s provided a first exposure for many people who then return to dine at the restaurant, which has been in business for 22 years.

“They always mention that,” he said. “It’s a lovely idea.”

Chris Dicenzo and Clarice Calogero, who live near Marion Street, brought dog Bosco along to grab dinner. They named Boss Burrito and Luo’s Peking House as their Thursday Night Out favorites.

“It’s convenient and affordable,” Calogero said.

More Top Picks Desktops

“We just pretty much try everything,” Dicenzo added.

For Su Perera, the event becomes an opportunity for a weekly family get-together. She and her family live a short walk away, and relatives come to their place and head to Marion Street. Perera, who is Sri Lankan, loves the diverse and relaxed atmosphere.

“I’ve been to many, many places, and I have to say, Oak Park is my little bubble,” she said with a smile.

Caitlin Mullen is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.