Evening on Astor an Elegant Block Party

Evening on Astor – Since 1964 when he opened the world famous Pump Room as a first time orchestra leader, Stanley Paul has been a Chicago music legend, and at the annual Astor St. party on Sept. 3rd, the accomplished musician was honored at a street sign dedication ceremony: the section of Goethe St. between State St. and Astor was officially re-named Stanley Paul Way

Hundreds of Gold Coast residents showed up for the 32nd Annual Astor St. party, unofficially referred to as “50 Shades of Stanley, An Evening with Astor Street”. In keeping with a strong tradition, many Astor St. residents positioned tables in front of their homes, displaying everything from elaborate, lighted candelabras to gold-trimmed wine glasses to a statue of Audrey Hepburn; not to mention gourmet delicacies and a surplus of wine bottles. Terrific ambiance and atmosphere were flowing like champagne everywhere I looked.

Also known as the world’s most elegant block party, this special event was not only a fundraiser, but also a unique celebration night, where a lot of food, fun, wine, and camaraderie were flowing all around, making it quite an enjoyable experience. As an outstanding tradition since 1982, the Gold Coast Neighbors Association (G.C.N.A.) has hosted Evening on Astor and every year it seems to be more extraordinary than the year before.

Besides the Stanley Paul dedication, this year’s highlights included plaques awarded to the most elegant tables, an Audrey Hepburn table (complete with a statue and classic black and white photos) and the Michael Lerich band livening up the airwaves with the music well into the night. In addition to the amazing tables outlining the East and West sides of Astor St., local restaurants including Giordano’s, Yogurtland, and Da Lobsta offered all partygoers a wide menu of items to choose from, in exchange for ticket coupons available for sale at the entrance.

So even two years after the significant 30th year anniversary, the Gold Coast Neighbors Association (G.C.N.A.) and its members do not rest on their laurels; instead the homeowners take great pride in decorating their street and try to outdo each other with their flamboyant table presentations, in hopes of being awarded the honor of most elegant table.

Congratulations to all residents of the Gold Coast, members of the G.C.N.A., and sponsor RE/MAX Premier Properties for another remarkable block party celebration.