It’s summer, or close enough. Time to turn back the clock and do what folks did to celebrate the coming of summers past: throw an old-fashioned block party.

That’s what happened Saturday in Kittery, where streets were closed off and people got together to enjoy the best of their town: magic, music, art and an array of food items from local vendors and restaurants.

Additional Photos

Human statue Linda Peck, dressed as Mary Poppins, holds a pose Saturday during the Kittery Block Party. Peck stands in one position for an hour to entertain crowds. Photos by Tim Greenway/Staff photographer

Emma Webb, 7, of Kittery spins plates at the party. It was her first time spinning plates, she said, and she found it to be fairly easy.

Amy Lemieux, an employee with the Kittery Recreation Department, grimaces as she is drenched by a bucket of cold water. Children tossed bean bags into a basket, causing the bucket to tip over on Lemieux.

Nichole Roberts, 8, of Kittery got her face painted like a puppy, then enjoyed a snack of chips and salsa.

Michael Shepherd, 10, of Newton, N.H., receives a massage from massage therapist Jacqueline Scott.

“It was great how this event emerged,” said Michael Landgarten, a member of the planning committee and owner of the lead sponsor, Bob’s Clam Hut. “Initially, (we) wanted to do something to give back to the town and community. We spoke with the town and decided to bring back the block party, an event that has not happened for over 10 years. All the people we approached said ‘yes’ in a big way.”

For out-of-town visitors who had previously known Kittery only for its retail outlets, the block party was a great icebreaker. “It’s a vibrant community and is due some appreciation,” Landgarten said.

Related Stories