[ccfic caption-text format="plaintext"]
By Stephen Press
Hometown Weekly Staff
Musicians set up their gear in front of the Police Department. Over loudspeakers, “Get Ready” by the Temptations played. Police officers cleared parked cars from either side of Main Street. The outdoor tables of Walpole’s eateries were filled with smiling patrons.
There was an unmistakable buzz about Walpole Center on Friday evening, and for good reason.
Main Street Live was back in full force, and it promised to be better than ever. The event, now in its second year, aims to shine a spotlight the vibrant business and restaurant community that calls the center of Walpole its home. Encompassing three successive Friday nights in September, Main Street Live features al fresco dining, live music and a walkable, family-friendly atmosphere, all in the center of town.
For both the early arrivals to the event and the business owners headquartered in this little slice of New England, there was a sense that a special evening was in store.
“It’s to promote local businesses and get our names out there,” said Kaley Himmelman, who stood outside of the boutique where she works. “[It’s about] getting to meet new customers and getting people to see our stuff that we sell here.”
“There’s is going to be a lot of people here,” she added with a hint of prescience.
Just a short walk up the road, Casey Hatten and his wife unloaded their two kids, 3 and 1, respectively, from their car.
“We’ve come here to meet friends,” said Hatten, his beaming daughter enjoying the proceedings from a perch in his arms. “They’ve told us it’s a good opportunity to check out some of the restaurants in Walpole, and that it’s family-friendly. We jump at those opportunities.”
A breeze, splitting the difference between a soft summer zephyr and brisk autumn gust, whipped the sidewalk where he stood. “I think outdoor seating is the appeal. And live music. Something that kids might enjoy. We’ll be here until 7:30, 8 o’clock,” he said, gathering his family to head towards the action, “when these two fall asleep.”
However long the little ones kept their eyes open, it seemed certain they were in for a good time.
Main Street Live will continue for the next two Fridays, rain or shine, with events planned on both September 9 and 16. The first of the two dates will feature acclaimed Boston country-rockers The Swinging Steaks. The latter event will involve several bands on the Town Common in addition to tents featuring dining, beer and wine.
