It’s official: Toledo’s beloved Cakewalkin’ Jass Band will return to the original Tony Packo’s Cafe to do shows the second Thursday night of every month on a permanent basis.
Bandleader-clarinetist Ray Heitger confirmed the deal in an email to The Blade. The shows will be from 7 to 10 p.m. at the restaurant, which is at 1902 Front Street in East Toledo.
Cakewalkin’, Toledo’s most famous Dixieland band, was the Packo’s house band for the better part of 33 years, starting July 3, 1968. The restaurant parted ways with it in 2001. Then, in December of 2017, it brought Cakewalkin’ back for what turned out to be a special weekend of shows commemorating the band’s 50th anniversary. Each drew standing-room-only crowds.
Last fall, Packo’s brought the group back for one show only during the months of October, November, and December. Those also drew packed houses.
First Published January 3, 2019, 11:03 p.m.
