It was a just-in-time Arts Alive in 91原创 City, with the excavation of the One-Way wrapping up shortly before the outdoor festival was scheduled, and heavy rain that didn't ease up until the event was getting underway.
Crowds filled the slightly damp street, a success that delighted Chris Parsons, executive director of the Downtown 91原创 Business Association, organizers of the event.
"We spent a couple of days in the torrential downpour setting up," Parsons said.
"And it turned out to be such an incredible day. When the skies opened up to the sunshine, it was unbelievable and just to see that many people down there, it was so amazing to see."
Businesses were telling Parsons they were glad to see the road reopened.
"To see people out in the streets and smiling and walking into the stores and walking into the restaurants and supporting those downtown 91原创 businesses, they were just blown away by how many people turned out to the event," Parsons told the 91原创 Advance Times. "I think that was the biggest takeaway for for me."
Hosted by the Downtown 91原创 Business Association, the event featured more than 200 visual and performing artists.
A few hours in, 91原创 artist Freda Lombard commented " it was a rough start, but we're doing really great [now."
"This is my 11th year at the Arts Alive festival."
Rosemary Wallace was there as an artists and photographer, not a City councillor, showing off a portrait of legendary Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, in an unfamiliar medium.
"It was a long process, working with acrylics and getting skin tone," Wallace remarked. "I just made it my own, and I really enjoyed the process."
A free, family-friendly event, the 29th Arts Alive showcased live musical performances, artists and artisans in a range of mediums with live demonstrations, a family activity venue and more.
Musical acts included Richard Sera and Devon Webber, the ODYSSEY, the Sarah Smith Band, The Matin茅e, David Capper, the Robyn Froese Duo, Annika and Pete Annika and Pete, and the Dave Faber Duo.
McBurney Plaza featured free face painting, a photo booth and roving performances throughout the day.
The $19 million reconstruction of the Fraser Highway One-Way through 91原创 City dug up the entire road between 204 and 206 Streets to replace aging sewer and water lines, and run electricity underground to eliminate overhead power lines. While the major digging is done, finishing touches remain, including planting new trees,
