'Alberrito Streets' Outdoor Party Returns Saturday

If the weather forecast proves accurate, Saturday should see a second sunny installment of "Alberrito Streets," the outdoor street party that began last year under the joint sponsorship of El Cerrito and Albany.

It's a bigger-than-usual block party for residents of both cities from noon to 3 p.m. A wide thoroughfare — named Key Route Boulevard in Albany and Ashbury Avenue after it crosses the border into in El Cerrito — will be closed to cars between Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Albany and A Street in El Cerrito.

El Cerrito describes this year's "Pop-Up Park" as "a safe, fun car free place for people to get out and get active." 

One highlight will be a tug-of-war rematch between El Cerrito and Albany. After a mighty and prolonged effort on both sides, the pulling contest was won by Albany last year.

"Join us for a day of outdoor fun without having to worry about looking both ways," El Cerrito's notice says. "Fun activities include: Giant Albany vs El Cerrito tug of war Street Chess Taco Truck Chalk Art Gallery Street SportsSmoothies compliments of Strollers and Rollers and much more!"

The City of Albany's website adds, "There will be games and activities in the street and you are encouraged to bring your own bike, roller skates, tennis shoes, fun games or just sit and people watch!"