Downtown Paris comes alive with first-ever block party

Grant Silverthorn and Kevin Konyu of 40 Daze perform on stage at the Downtown Paris Block Party on September 19, energizing the crowd with their set.

Paris Independent Staff

Staff Contribution

Downtown Paris was buzzing with energy and community spirit on September 19 as residents gathered for the first-ever block party—a celebration marking the near completion of the six-month-long Downtown Dig project.

The evening featured live music, dancing, and plenty of local flavour. Thanks to the support of Prynx Productions, a main stage was set up to host a lineup of performers that kept crowds entertained well into the night. Michael Bryan kicked off the music at 6 p.m., followed by crowd-pleasing line dancing led by Urban Cowboy at 7 p.m.

The night’s highlight came at 8 p.m. when 40 Daze, a long-time local favourite, reunited for a two-hour performance that electrified the audience and stirred memories of their earlier days on stage.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, Branch 29 of the Royal Canadian Legion operated a popular beer garden, offering a place for everyone to relax and raise a glass to the progress downtown.

Organizers credited the success of the event to the hard work of volunteers, the County of Brant, and the Downtown Paris BIA, who came together to give the community a chance to celebrate the resilience of local businesses and the return of life to Grand River Street North.