Great things expected at Art in the Park
Organizers say the 24th annual Art in the Park and Craft Fair Saturday should be the best ever in Marion.
The number of vendors remains strong, about 200 or so, said Marion Chamber of Commerce executive secretary Margo Yates.
"The biggest change is that it's not the same weekend as the state fair," she said. "We see that as a positive."
Central Park opens at 9 a.m. There is no charge to wander the grounds. The event ends at 5 p.m.
To reduce congestion, visitors are encouraged to use the free parking at the baseball complex and Marion Die and Fixture. They can ride shuttle buses provided by the school district to the park.
"Even a lot of locals use it because the buses pull right up to the front of the park," Yates said. "You don't have to carry your purchases very far."
Ten $20 gift certificates, good for use at any booth for the final hour of the fair, will be given away at 4 p.m. Winners must be present.
Items for sale
Artists from 12 states are registered, featuring longtime favorites as well as many new items.
Among the popular returning items are limestone and metal art, homemade food products, soaps, candles, baskets, clothing, pet items, horseshoe artwork, patriotic items, furniture, photography, and a great deal of jewelry.
"We're seeing lots and lots of jewelry," Yates said. "This seem to be the year for new and different styles."
First-time items include handmade wooden clogs, banks made from genuine post office box doors, custom plaques, vintage beaded jewelry, custom engraved cake pans, and handmade American Indian pan pipes, flutes, and whistles.
An unusual item are the Glitz C Gurls. These are adult-sized dolls who hold a chalkboard, and are popular "greeters" for businesses or in classrooms, Yates said.
A large food court will operate throughout the day, selling a variety of treats and other items. All food vendors are local businesses or non-profit organizations.
Music throughout the day will be performed by the Tim Janis Ensemble. Janis himself, a respected composer of modern American classical music, is expected to attend.
He sponsors ensemble group appearances throughout the nation to give people an opportunity to experience the music. The group had to cancel last year's appearance because of the temporary shutdown of commercial airliner service.
A growing number of vendors arrive Thursday, which means more potential customers for local businesses, Yates said. A few businesses are adjusting hours to be open later Friday.
Local Boy Scouts will provide assistance throughout the day. Anyone else who would like to volunteer is welcome to contact the chamber office or stop by the information booth, Yates said.
But be warned: volunteering can be addictive. Yates said longtime volunteers Sara and Clinton Jackson are returning from out of state to help with Art in the Park.
