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The typically calm streets of Ford City will be buzzing on Saturday with the return of Dropped on Drouillard.
Punk bands, circus performers, craft brewery pop-ups, food vendors — even a group of BMX bikers pulling off aerial flips — will fill a stretch of Drouillard Road between Trenton and Richmond Streets.
And if last year’s turnout is any sign of what to expect, the Ford City BIA is preparing for even larger crowds to come out and enjoy the neighbourhood’s offerings on Saturday.
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“Last year was like an explosion, it was far bigger than the previous years,” said Ford City BIA chair Shane Potvin.
“It’s really exciting as a Windsorite, let alone for the city, to go to events where you see people turn out like that.”
Potvin estimates last summer’s event drew 5,000, nearly double the previous year’s turnout. He said the festival is a great opportunity for people to discover what’s new in the historic neighbourhood.
“We always say that this is kind of like the Ford City yearbook,” said Potvin.
“Every year, you come to Ford City and it’s like, wow, those three buildings got renovated, and there’s four new businesses on that block. We love that, because it gives people a reason to come back every year.”
Additions to the neighbourhood this year include Petrella’s Italian Street Food, Ford City Potters, and Cookie Bar. Artcite also recently announced its plans to relocate from downtown in 2025.
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Staging this year’s event cost around $30,000, said Potvin, which largely comes from sponsorships.
Those attending via active transportation can stow their bikes for free at the City Cyclery. Border City Boxing Club is also offering — for a small donation — a “chariot” service to shuttle those who park far away.
The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday (Aug. 17) — rain or shine.
Visit fordcity.ca/dropped for more information.
mmazak@postmedia.com
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