Business owners and city officials will celebrate several new and expanding businesses in the 100 block of West Washington Street with a block party Friday evening.

“We wanted to celebrate the new businesses that opened up in the Washington Square development, and also it’s another opportunity to celebrate the new things happening on West Washington Street,” said Economic Development Director Kevin Hughes.

The event will begin at 4:30 p.m. with remarks on the main stage at 100 W. Washington St. Ribbon cuttings will be held at each business from 4:45 to 5 p.m., with live music and other activities beginning at 5.

If all goes well this week, the tenant for the fifth and final retail spot in the development could be announced at the event, Hughes said.

Monument Construction converted the former retail buildings to about 68 loft apartments with new retail spaces on the ground floor.

Following the ribbon cuttings, the block party celebration will include live music by 10 Spot, a bounce house and face painting. Shopping and special food and beverage options will be available at nearby East Coast Taco and Uncork’d.

The 100 block of West Washington Street will be closed from Main to Saratoga streets to create a walkable environment. Folks are welcome to bring lawn chairs.

The party will wrap up at 9 p.m.

The participating businesses include:

• Beauty-N-We, 125 W. Washington St., a health and beauty boutique that offers make-up artistry, skin-care consultations and massage therapy
• Leila Alexander Portraits, 129 W. Washington St., a full-service photography studio specializing in modern beauty portraits for women
• Oasis Café Lounge, 137 W. Washington St., a live music restaurant and hookah lounge
• Chop Shop, 141 W. Washington St., a men’s barbershop that has expanded to the new location