Downtown McKees Rocks came alive for the holiday season on November 18th. The sidewalks were crowded for a series of attractions that comprised ‘Jingle Bell Rocks’, a collaborative effort of dedicated resident volunteers, local businesses, the Borough of McKees Rocks, Focus On Renewal, MRCDC and many others.
This was a magical night. From the stunning visual of lighting the new Hollowood music sign to a children’s Christmas fantasy land in the Father Ryan Arts Center. To Kevin Sousa, the Cool Beans food truck, and the recently opened Rocks Landing, all serving delicious culinary delights. And to top it off, horse and carriage rides in the Plaza.
The identity of downtown McKees Rocks emerging as an arts, entertainment and food mecca was heard loud and clear, quite literally, from the stage along the massive brick sidewall of recently renovated Hollowood Music and Sound, with the incredible, re-imagined guitar sign facing both directions of Chartiers Avenue, a distinctive beacon that makes a statement.
Could this be Pittsburgh’s version of Beale Street in Memphis, or Bourbon Street in New Orleans, at least from a music perspective? With places like Hollowood, the Father Ryan Arts Center, and the Roxian just around the corner, one would think yes.
But the best part was seeing a variety of ages, backgrounds and geographies mixing on our streets, everyone having a great time with laughter filling the air.
Get used to it, this is going to become the rule and not just the exception in downtown McKees Rocks.
Many thanks to everyone who made this night happen. It was truly a team effort that showed what love of our hometown can accomplish.
