First Thursday Street Festivals Return To Del Ray

If you're more than ready for some springtime outdoor activities, Del Ray is happy to accomodate. The annual First Thursday outdoor street festivals will kick off Thursday, April 5. The monthly street festivals offer live music, themed events, activities with local business and more the first Thursday through September from 6 p.m. to dusk along Mount Vernon Avenue.

The theme for the first First Thursday is "Hats Along the Avenue." Attendees should break out their craziest hats and head to Mount Vernon Avenue for live music from the Janna Audey Band and other activities.

Every month, the street festival benefits a different local cause. April's nonprofit is Alexandria Battered Women's Shelter, which helps give a fresh start to women escaping domestic violence. Participants are encouraged to bring donations to Pat Miller Neighborhood Square (intersection of Mount Vernon and Oxford Avenues.). Needed items include pots, pans, dishes, glasses/cups, toasters, can openers, coffee makers, diapers (sizes 4-6), batteries (D & AA), and gift cards.

Other themes for this year's First Thursdays include:

• May 3 - Dog Days in Del Ray
• June 7 - Unmask Your Hero
• July 5 - Red, White and Blue
• Aug. 2 - Aloha Thursday
• Sept. 6 - Show Us Your Spirit

The events are free and pets are welcome.

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Image via Visit Del Ray