Though it opened for business a couple of weeks ago, the ‘official’ Grand Re-Opening of Third Avenue in downtown Oakdale will be observed on Friday, Feb. 24.

A full evening of festivities is planned to mark the North Third Avenue renovation project and the re-opening of the corridor to full foot and vehicle traffic after several months of renovation and construction work.

Hours for the celebration are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m.

Shops will be open, many with special sales, and there will be music provided by DJ Jeff. Those attending can earn raffle tickets by spending money at participating Third Avenue stores. The raffle winners will be drawn at 8:15 p.m., just before the end of the formal Re-Opening festivities. You need not be present to win.

City officials and business owners along the North Third Avenue corridor are hoping for a good turnout, and are encouraging residents to come see firsthand the work that was done and the improvements that have been made in the business district.