The vibrant street party was aiming to revitalise the historic retail hub.
Organised by the Arcade Traders Group, the event featured live music, artisan stalls, poetry readings, and extended shop hours, drawing praise from traders, shoppers, and local officials.
The celebration commemorated the arcade’s founding on 29 July 1825, when construction started on what would become a cornerstone of island commerce.
Policy & Resources president Lindsay de Saumarez described the evening as ‘a hub of activity’ and praised the community spirit on display.
‘It’s lovely to see the area reinvigorated,’ she said, noting the recent extension of al fresco licences as a key innovation to attract footfall.
When she was Environment & Infrastructure president last term, her committee helped to modernise and streamline process for al fresco permits.
Retailers welcomed the boost. ‘Times are really tough for small independents. Anything that brings people into town is going to be good,' said Denise McGahy of Make & Made.
Writer’s Block owner Kelvin Whelan added: ‘It’s a fantastic evening to celebrate the businesses and the people who keep the arcade going.’
The event also resonated with visitors.
Passer-by Karl Reynolds was hosting family from the UK.
‘It’s nice to see more activity in this area. There’s a real sense of community.’
Fellow attendee Tracy Saxton highlighted the challenge posed by online shopping.
‘We need things like this to encourage people to shop locally.’
Event coordinator Sofi Noakes said: ‘This event is about raising the profile, raising footfall in the arcade, and just showing off what a lovely place it is. We’re all here to help each other and lift each other up.’
With some of the 30 retail units vacant, the traders hoped the evening would spur further investment and interest.
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