About 4,200 people enjoyed the 51 plus performers and three Ross Street Patio Parties this summer, similar numbers from what the city saw a year ago.
“I think we had a really successful season, especially considering the weather,” said Greg Stafford, the city’s special events programmer.
The city planned to host four patio parties from June to September, but was forced to cancel the final event on Sep. 2 due to rain.
It was the fifth year for the Ross Street Patio on Ross Street and Little Gaetz Avenue.
Stafford said having the patio in the heart of downtown has caught the attention of potential business owners.
“There’s been more and more businesses trying to open near that location, trying to take advantage of it,” he said. “There has definitely been growth in the area. It’s been really great for our city.”
Stafford said the patio helps draw residents downtown where they can enjoy the galleries, eateries and pubs.
Stafford said as the city grows, the harder it is to convince people to spend their time downtown.
“There’s a lot of people who would rather go to their neighbourhood eateries or pubs instead of getting back downtown, we are always aiming to get more citizenry down here. More eyes and ears downtown, that’s our goal,” said Stafford.
Stafford said there will be a discussion on whether to coincide Patio Parties with First Friday Red Deer next year.
Csilla Dudas, owner of Chill Out Café and Bakery at 4919 Ross Street, said having her business right across the street from the patio has really helped bring in customers over the summer.
jonathan.guignard@www.reddeeradvocate.com