By Gavin McIntyre, MLIVE Intern.

To view the original article and additional photos visit MLIVE.

Hell’s Half Mile hosted a throwback beach party at the Bay City State Park beach Saturday July 9, 2016.

It was the first time the newly designated nonprofit has organized an event on the beach. The event featured an Americana cookout, a mural painting, beach volleyball, sand castle building, and live music.

Hundreds of people came out to the state park for the beach-themed activities. “I try to come out to Hell’s Half Mile events,” said Angela Rose, who brought her nephew Oliver, 2, “and this seems like a real cool event.”

The event began at 5 p.m. and didn’t end till 10 p.m. Shady Groves, the Kickstand Band, and Valentiger were there to provide music for the beach party.

“I want to do this every weekend for the rest of my life,” said Gordon Smith, guitar/vocals for the Kickstand Band.

The beach party event was sponsored by Graff Chevrolet and Jack’s Bicycle Shop. Festival founder and director Alan LaFave hopes to have even bigger party on the beach next time.

“We wanted to start small and see the reaction,” said LaFave, “and the reaction was really amazing.”

Hell’s Half Mile is hosting another event in Unity Park Aug. 5, announcing the films and bands for this year’s festival.