Watch the boats go by on the river. Dance the night away. Drink wine under the stars. It all happens with an open invitation issued by the owners of the Wine Crate.

It’s called The Cratest Block Party, a once-a-month street party held on Water Street in Washington. Tonight, from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m., the street will be blocked off, the byway replaced by tables and chairs, a DJ or live band, and the 300-400 people who turn out for each event.

“We’ve had had a fabulous turnout, as far as the number of people,” said Wine Crate co-owner Beth Glisson. “The response of the community has been overwhelmingly positive. They’re grateful to have something to do, to get out and enjoy the weather and friends and a good time.”

Glisson owns the Wine Crate with daughter Paige Horne. The wine shop, bar and bistro opened in May of 2017; the first block party, held late that summer, was such a hit, the two decided to make it a regular occurrence throughout the warmer months of the year.

“We love it. We like watching the new people come in, watching the friendships form,” Glisson said.

Glisson said the event has been a big draw for out-of-towners looking for a weekend getaway.

“The last several, we’ve even seen people from as far away as Raleigh,” Glisson said. “It’s been interesting. It’s been kind of an eclectic and diverse group of people.”

While the event has certainly benefitted Wine Crate business, its appeal to tourists also boosts other downtown businesses.

“The out-of-town people call ahead and ask for recommendations for restaurants downtown,” Glisson said. “It is definitely worth doing. It’s a nice little boost. It also keeps our staff on our toes — it’s a good reminder for them to stay trained and aware of the product.”

While ID is required to partake of alcoholic beverages, the block party is open to families with children.

“They can come listen to the music and dance and have a Pepsi or a Coca-Cola. We’ve had them (here), all the way from infants in pouches, all the way up to teenagers,” Glisson said.

In addition to tonight’s event, two more block parties will round out the season on Sept. 15 and Oct. 20. The Oct. 20 block party will start up at the conclusion of Washington’s downtown barbecue festival, Smoke on the Water, and feature back-to-back bands: Cooper Greer and Rural Route Romance.

The Wine Crate is located at 132 E. Water St., Washington. For more information, call 252-495-8485.