Here’s a Fair Chance to Go 4th and Dance

The downtown-adjacent end of 4th Street in Long Beach is known for its eclectic array of shops purveying such items as vintage clothing, furniture and novelties. And Sunday’s second annual street fair is in keeping with the strip’s reputation for alternative fare.

Organizers of the daylong event, to be held between Cherry and Junipero streets, expect to attract twice as many visitors as last year. Many of those 4,000 attendees came from out of town to catch their favorite bands. With the goal to raise funding for the A.R.K./Burbank Elementary School Mural Project, the surrounding community is expected to make a solid showing this year.

The Mural Project is a double-sided work on the elementary school’s fence, which faces the 4th Street businesses participating in the fair. Among them is the A.R.K. Studio & Gallery, a community arts center that promotes local artists, both established and fledgling, including some as young as kindergarten age.

Proceeds from vendor fees and donations will enable students who attend the school to participate in the second phase of the mural, scheduled for this summer.

Part 1 of the mural began in January. The result will be unveiled at the event with the mayor and other city dignitaries on hand.

But undoubtedly it’s the featured attractions of the day that will keep them dancing in the streets.

Stand-up comedians Tom Kenny and Melba Toast will serve as masters of ceremonies to the live entertainment, heavily weighted toward roots rock plus a couple of acts under the amorphous alternative category.

Playing the main stage is Throw Rag, National People’s Gang, Whiskey Biscuit, the Dave & Deke Combo, Lucky Stars, the Round-Ups, Bomboras, opera singer Cathy Lawes, the children’s International Peace Choir and the Angkor Dream Dance Troupe.

The side stage is set aside for acoustic, roots-oriented acts Louisiana Mud Puppies featuring Russell Scott; Johnny & Gina; Eddie Reed and his kids, Meagan Ivy and Johnny Noble; Vooduo, and Ben Brescia.

Also expect about 100 vendors offering children’s activities, ethnic foods and a variety of arts and crafts.

* SECOND ANNUAL 4TH STREET FAIR

* 4th Street, between Cherry and Junipero streets, Long Beach.

* (310) 438-5400.

* Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

* Free.