Chicago Prepares For Inaugural Westside Festival, Purple Block Party In Garfield Park

Westside Chicago native, Briahnna Gatlin, has long been one of the best publicists not only here in Chicago. But anywhere since starting her own PR firm, Swank Public Relations aka Swank PR. Nearly 15 years ago. That is based on Chicago’s Westside neighborhood and has had clients ranging from current rising star, Tink to Chicago area based emcees, The Boy Illinois and A.M. Early Morning. As well as singer Josh K and producer, Lord Haiti. Gatlin has also worked with the likes of legendary figures such as Raekwon of the Wu-Tang Clan. As well as Diamond D and Lord Finesse. The latter two names being part of when she used to do PR for events put on by former very popular Chicago South Loop nightclub, The Shrine. Gatlin has also put together collaborations for the likes of Zenni Optical Eyewear through her PR firm with the Chicago Bulls. As well as a first look screening of the L.T. Hutton produced biopic, All Eyez on Me, on the late great Tupac Shakur.

This weekend Gatlin is stepping into a project she has long wanted to do and is a passion project of hers. By bringing a first of its kind festival to Chicago’s Westside neighborhood of Garfield Park. With her inaugural, Purple Block Party. That she is curating through her Swank PR and will be headlined by The Diplomats Jim Jones. With Chicago area Westside collective, Pivot Gang. Co-headlining the community and cultural festival that she hopes is reminiscent of the block parties she experienced growing up. That let you knew Summer was getting ready to end and school was on the horizon. Gatlin hopes this is an annual event that last for several years and generations to come.

Purple Block Party will take place on Sunday, Aug. 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Garfield Park Music Circle Center. That is off West Monroe Street and South Central Park Avenue. The block party is also family-friendly and will include health and wellness activities. Such as meditation, cardio and yoga. Plus also feature an African Dance Team performance. As well as a Kids Blue Zone where children can have their own experiences with custom snow cones, a candy bar, improv and creative theater. Among several activities.

Tickets start at $55 for adults and $25 for children. Children under the age of five can get in for free. In addition to Jones and Pivot Gang, many Chicago artists will take the stage at the block party: including, Vic Lloyd, Baha Bank$, Nia Kay and more. Power 92.3 media personality Bree Specific will host and Chicago house music legend Ron Carroll will be on the ones and twos at the Purple Block Party his DJ set starts at 11:15 a.m. Here is the link to purchase tickets.