A free, community event will add new life to Millie's Lane.
On Friday, Sept. 27, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the alleyway, which connects Yates and Johnson streets, will transform from nondescript passage into a buzzing hub of live music, food vendors and local businesses and artisans.
"The party aims to activate the alleyway by celebrating the vibrancy of a great space for the community and businesses to operate in tandem," wrote the Coastal Research, Education and Advocacy Network, which organized the event, in an email. "The goal is to revitalize interest in Millie's Lane and showcase the mom-and-pop businesses that work tirelessly to keep the space alive."
Natalie Justin owns one of those businesses – the 18-year-old Jamaican restaurant Stir It Up.
“Without community there can be no commerce," said Justin in a news release. "The goal of this event is to showcase how vibrant and eclectic Millie’s Lane can be, by including people and businesses to create a positive identity of our alleyway.”
Other Millie's Lane establishments Cinevic, Fan Favourites Games and Movies and Union Tattoo, will have their doors open to mix-and-mingle with attendees. The vintage clothing store Cheers Vintage, which operates just outside of Millie's Lane on Yates Street, will be there, too.
Musical acts include Victoria-based DJ Blacasphalt and singer-songwriter Anne Martina, and a market of local artisans will sell their wares in a market.
Snag free tickets here.
