On September 8th, downtown Edmonton was bustling with excitement – all to ring in the new school year. NorQuest College joined forces with MacEwan University, Women Building Futures and the Downtown Business Association for the annual celebration of the Downtown Campus Block Party.
The Block Party was not just your average start-of-the-year gathering. It was a chance for students to come together, make lasting friendships, and have a blast before hitting the books. The festivities took place on Capital Boulevard (108 St), creating a vibrant atmosphere between the MacEwan and NorQuest campuses.
From 11 am to 2 pm, the area lit up with electrifying live performances and a wide range of exciting activities. Attendees felt the adrenaline rush as they tackled the rock-climbing wall or tested their skills at axe throwing. They brought on the competition during the extreme basketball challenge or cheered on the mini horse races featuring rideable mechanical ponies. MC College's nail painting and braiding station proved a popular pampering spot. And then there was the mouthwatering food from local vendors to round out the excitement.
The performance stage was abuzz with MCs and DJs from La Connexional, Edmonton’s urban connection for people of Afro-Caribbean origin. The crowds also enjoyed dance tutorials and performances from MacEwan’s Hip Hop dance group, NorQuest’s Bhangra dancers, Filipino Heritage group and Vietnamese dance group. Indigenous drummers and dancers later graced the stage in the afternoon.
But the fun didn't end there! Attendees could also take a ride on the popular mini-train that transported them up and down the promenade, bridging the gap between 102 and 104 Avenue.
This celebration was made possible through the ongoing partnerships between post-secondary institutions, businesses, community groups, and downtown residents. Together, they continue to create an unforgettable experience for hundreds of students and individuals who live or work downtown.
To check out the footage from the Block Party, head on over to NorQuest’s Instagram or Facebook page. And if you’re not doing so already, don’t forget to hit follow!