The Community Redevelopment Agency’s ‘Red, White & Blues’ kicks off the holiday week today, as it showcases downtown Cape Coral as a dining and entertainment district.
This free event marks the return of a developing tradition for the CRA, which has hosted an event a week before the Fourth of July holiday for the past few years.
Though last year featured the “Red, White, & Brew” tasting, in which American micro-brews were paired with select food samples, this year’s event will be run in much the same way.
Free trollys will connect the 14 locations — the CRA recently added Rack em Billiards — giving attendees the chance explore the different bars and restaurants while taking advantage of their special offers.
“With specials starting at $1, even someone on a tight budget could have a great night out,” said CRA spokesperson Helen Ramey. “We now have 14 establishments participating in the Red, Whites & Blues event. so come out and enjoy the best entertainment in the city — all in South Cape!”
Indeed, each of the 14 locations will be offering great specials on food and drinks.
For example, the Twisted Conch will feature $4 margaritas, $2 well shots, and a grouper sandwich for $8.99; and Ralph’s Place will offer a pitcher of beer and a basket of honey barbecue chicken wings for $10.
Ralph’s Place owner Joanne Stevens recently said the changes — taking away the tasting element — will give attendees the chance to slow down and enjoy the evening instead of rushing from venue to venue.
“People will have the chance to have full dinners, sit for a while … they may not get to all 13 places, but the ones they do get to, they’ll be able to spend more time and enjoy what they have to offer,” Stevens said last week.
Free parking will be available throughout downtown, and there will be two trolley routes running all evening long.
The blue trolley will be the “express route” for the event, stopping at the 14 locations, and the red trolley will run the trolley’s continuous regular route that takes people by the yacht club.
“We want people to know it’s a great way to park and ride and enjoy a great night out on the town,” Ramey said.
This free event runs 5 – 10 p.m. all through downtown Cape Coral. Passports highlighting all participating locations and the trolley routes will be available on the blue trolley.