This is a contribution from a Swampscott High School student, as part of the Swampscott Tides Big Blue Student News selection. 

Story and photos by Joseph Blood.

On Saturday, August 8th, Swampscott Recreation held a block party on a section of Humphrey Street. A large variety of local businesses set up booths showcasing their products — including food, clothing, jewelry, and Swampscott-themed décor — and telling the story of their journeys as business owners.

“It’s so cool, it gets families out who need to be outside. It’s just very unique for this area so I like being a part of it, and everyone’s super nice,” said Carly Hood, owner of The Navy Pearl, a consignment shop specializing in handbags.

The block party saw a large turnout, the entire area packed with pedestrians, vendors, and live music from local bands and artists. 

“It’s nice to feature the businesses on Humphrey Street; it’s like a giant farmers market so that’s fun for all the people to come. It’s a really fun summer night,” said Lilly Tapper, owner of popular Humphrey Street bakery Three Hundred Fifty.

A number of recent startups including The Navy Pearl and Three Hundred Fifty drew some of the largest crowds. These businesses took days, even weeks to craft some of the items they were selling and by the end of the day they were nearly sold out of their wares. 

Daniell Phillips owner of Washington Beach Designs sold handcrafted jewelry shaped as ocean animals like octopuses and crabs. “I think it’s been a great addition to the town to get people out. You get the opportunity to meet a lot more people because there are more business than at the farmers market every week,” said Phillips.