'Great music, great food.' Massillon Museum readies for annual Island Party on Friday
The Massillon Museum will host its 29th annual Island Party on Friday.
It's a giant thank-you to the community for its support.
"It's our most highly anticipated event of the year," Massillon Museum Executive Director Alexandra Nicholis Coon said. "This event draws residents of Massillon and tourists from far and near to enjoy great music, great food and to celebrate community in one place."
Here are five things you need to know if you are going to attend:
The party kicks off when gates open at 5:30 p.m. Music and food begin at 6 p.m. at the Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E. Guests can enter through two gates: one near Lincoln Way and First Street SE and one at the municipal parking lot near Duncan Plaza. A map of parking options is available on the museum's website massillonmuseum.org.
The free party happens rain or shine. There is a charge for food and beverages. Cash and credit cards are accepted. "There is rain forecasted on either side of (Friday)," Nicholis Coon said. "But (Friday) is the bright spot in the weather projection." Bring a blanket and lawn chair to enjoy the party, but leave outside food and drinks at home.
Irie Island Jamaican will serve up island treats. The Canton-based restaurant joined the party last year. This year, it will bring more flavors of Jamaica with its jerk chicken, rice and Jamaican patties. "The jerk chicken is a little spicier for some of our guests but it is an authentic way to bring more to the Island Party while also supporting another local business," Nicholis Coon said. Additional menu items include pulled pork, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, MassMu salsa and fruit skewers. And don't forget an ice-cold Jamaican Red Stripe, an island draft from Paradigm Shift or a frozen margarita. Wine, water and soft drinks will also be served. New to this year's event is the Kona Ice truck. The Greatness Cafe in the museum lobby will also be open until 9 p.m.
Carlos Jones and P.L.U.S. Band return to Duncan Plaza with reggae favorites. Jackson High School Steel Drum Band will perform during breaks and Matthew "Major Scales" Edick and Juliette Anthony of Divine Entertainment will perform fire manipulation on stage. Kids can enjoy a variety of activities provided by the museum.
American Sign Language interpreters will be on hand throughout the event. "We know it might be a small segment of our guests that takes advantage of the interpreters but accessibility is paramount to us at the museum and we want to create an environment that is accessible, comfortable, safe and fun for everyone," Nicholis Coon said.
This article originally appeared on The Independent: 5 things to know about the 2023 Massillon Museum Island Party bash
