Event to feature Braves star Andruw Jones, Rebirth Brass Band and children’s activities
Tourism leaders with the City of Venice are inviting members of the public to “Dust off your baseball caps and join the block party on Miami Avenue” on Saturday, Feb. 8, to kick off the beginning of Spring Training “in Mardi Gras style.”
Hosted by the nonprofit Venice MainStreet in partnership with the Atlanta Braves Spring Training Organization, the event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m., “with fun activities for the whole family,” a news release says.
Braves player Andruw Jones will be in attendance for a meet-and-greet session with fans, the release continues. Additionally, the Grammy award-winning Rebirth Brass Band, “a New Orleans institution, will transport attendees to the streets of the French Quarter with its contemporary jazz sound — a combination of traditional instrumentation with funk, hip-hop, soul, and other modern elements,” the release says. “The band’s high energy will sure to have everyone dancing in the streets.”
Among activities for children will be an inflatable corn hole and face painting, the release adds.
Food and beverage trucks will be on site, as well, the release notes.
“We are thrilled to be invited by Venice MainStreet to help celebrate the start of Atlanta Braves Spring Training,” Michael Dunn, vice president of Florida operations for the Atlanta Braves, said in the release.
Proceeds from this event will go to two local nonprofit organizations — Venice Challenger Baseball and Venice MainStreet, the release notes. Admission will be $5, but children under age 12 may attend the event for free, the release adds.
“Parking is within comfortable walking distance,” the release says.
For more information, go to visitvenicefl.org or contact Venice MainStreet at 484-6722.