Ames’ fourth annual MusicWalk will take place Thursday in the Main Street Cultural District.

More than 30 musicians from many different genres will play in various businesses along Main Street. The event started in 2006 as a celebration for ISU’s 150th anniversary.

“Inside many shops, the public can enjoy free live music … featuring Iowa musicians,” said Jennifer Schill, Main Street Cultural District member. “There will also be dancers and other live performances outside throughout the district.”

Schill said the MusicWalk is popular with Ames residents and ISU students because it is free, family-friendly entertainment.

“It also introduces different arts to the public in different forms,” she said.

The event is a huge promotional opportunity for Main Street businesses, as it brings hundreds of people downtown to visit the stores and see what they have to offer.

Artists include students from the Ames area, Alexander Recording Kompany Session Players, Central Iowa String Quartet, Sean Huston, Brian Toppenberg and Last Minute.

Businesses participating include Vinyl Cafe, Yummy’s Cupcake Emporium, The Salon, Teal and Tenacious, Olde Main and Chocolaterie Stam.

View the full list of artists and businesses at http://www.mainstreetculturaldistrict.com/files/announcements/761.pdf.