Emerge's 12th annual Block Party will be July 11

The biggest free community arts party in Coeur d'Alene is almost here.

Emerge's 12th annual Block Party will be from 5 p.m. to midnight July 11 on Lakeside Avenue between First and Second streets and inside the Emerge Gallery at 119 N. Second St.

The works of over 145 local artists will be on display, from film and performance to painters and sculptors. The evening will feature activities, music, food and drinks. This year's art Block Party art exhibition was juried by local artists Kate Lund, Abby Light and Jennifer Drake. 

The Block Party not only features and supports local visual artists but also film and performance artists. The art is selected for this show by a panel of professional artists and members of the arts community. Over 300 pieces will be shown and available for purchase, putting money back in the pockets of local artists. Each year the show has been a greater success than the previous one. With over 4,500 people walking through during the last event, it captivated a wide and diverse audience, making a true community gathering.

It also serves as one of the nonprofit art organization's biggest annual fundraisers through art and merchandise sales, donations, bar proceeds and community sponsorships. It is at the heart of the Emerge mission to provide arts education for free or no cost and support youth and adults in the community. The funds raised during the Block Party will be used to cover the cost of Emerge's monthly art exhibits and supply materials for art classes. They also allow Emerge to continue providing individuals with professional development support and tools to further their careers in the arts. 

Block Party highlights this year will include: 

• A full wall of artwork from Emerge's featured artist of the year, Adam Roth
• Roller skate dance performance
• Special guest performances from Lake City Playhouse
• Poetry readings by acclaimed poet Roger Dunsmore and Coeur d'Alene's poet laureate, Jennifer Passaro

A ticketed pre-party and artist meet-and-greet will be from 7 to 9 p.m. July 10. Tickets are $25 and can be bought on Emerge's website.

Visit emergecda.com for pre-party tickets and event details.

    Krissany Danielle conducts an aerial performance during Emerge's 2024 Block Party. This year's event will be July 11.
  

    Eddie Andrade from the band YP performs at a past Emerge Block Party. The 12th annual Block Party will be July 11 from 5 p.m. to midnight.