NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The annual Eagle Street Beach Party has been rescheduled for Saturday, July 15, in light of daylong thunderstorms and showers predicted for Friday. 

 

The times of the events remain 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. for the family portion, and 7  to 10 p.m. for the adult fiesta. 

 

Volunteers are needed to help spread the sand at starting at 1:30 p.m.; shovels provided, just show up.

 

This is the 19th year that artist Eric Rudd's annual community sculpture of the "Eagle Street Beach" is being held and the eighth year for the city's Mexican Fiesta on the urban beach. 

 

The beach event, originated by Rudd in 1999 and now sponsored by his Berkshire Art Museum, has become a summer staple for creative fun in the sand. Some 500,000 pounds of sand donated by Specialty Minerals of Adams will be spread along the historic street and local merchants and organizations have contributed sand toys and prizes for everyone, as well as special prizes for the most creative sand castles or sand sculptures.

 

Mildred Elley's Pittsfield Campus has generously donated 300 sand pails and shovels free for all participants to use and keep; Adams Community Bank is contributing the entertainment and out-of-pocket expenses for both events. 

 

In addition, many prizes donated by Eagle Street merchants will be awarded to individuals and small groups/families of all ages making interesting sand sculptures. For example, Jack's Hot Dog Stand has donated 60 gift certificates good for one hot dog.  Other merchants have given gifts and certificates to their stores. First Baptist Church will be giving away free ice cream cones, MountainOne will be giving away goodies, and 250 Steeplecats tickets will be given to children ages 12 and younger. Several not-for-profit groups will also be on hand giving away toys to children.

 

No artistic experience is necessary to win a prize, just the willingness to get into the sand and have fun. Beach attire is recommended. Food color dye is acceptable, but no spray paint. The event is for children, adults and families playing creatively in the sand together. Prizes will be awarded primarily to children, but prizes to groups of children as well as families with adults and individual adults will also be awarded. 

 

The fiesta begins at 7 with adult games along with margaritas and Corona beer for sale from Desperados Restaurant, live music with singer Lita Williams, and dancing in the sand. 

 

Supporters and sponsors in addition to those already listed are North Adams Chamber of Commerce, Aubuchon Hardware, Smith Watson & Co. CPA, Keith Bona, Don Dix/DWD Masonry, and the merchants and businesses on historic Eagle Street. After the parties, the sand is donated to the city of North Adams for public use. 

 

No smoking is allowed during either event.