ESSEX — The 33rd-annual Downtown Essex Day will be held on Saturday throughout the historic hamlet.
“So far, 42 vendors have signed up,” said Katharine Preston, who, along with her husband, John Bingham, has coordinated the event for the past five years.
“I am so pleased that we have that many vendors. It’s always a fun day.”
Downtown Essex Day takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Entertainment will be held throughout the day and includes Joan Crane, who, along with friends, will perform her popular blues and folk tunes on the lawn at Pantouf’s Glass Studio starting at 11 a.m.
Antiques, collectibles, artwork and crafts as will be on sale at shops and booths, as well as yard sales throughout the hamlet.
Visitors can enjoy lunch or snacks at several eateries, including the Old Dock House Restaurant, Essex Inn, Essex Provisions, the Essex Ice Cream Café and the Pink Pig. The Essex Community Church and Iroquois Lodge will also have food and other items for sale.
In addition, Wayne Bailey and his culinary crew will be providing their gastronomic specialty, hot dogs, accompanied with a proliferation of jovial banter.
Artwork will be displayed by vendors and the specialty shops in the hamlet, as well as in the Adirondack Art Association’s gallery, located in the Old Fire House.
Beggs Park on Lake Champlain affords picnic areas and playground equipment.
Due to its architecture, including many 19th Century stone and brick homes and businesses, the hamlet is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so it is protected by ordinances that help manage growth and change. Walking-tour information is available at several locations.
As in the past, Lakeside School will offer face painting for the children. The Belden Noble Memorial Library will issue library cards for its newly automated services, as well as having used books available for purchase.
Walk-on tickets for the Essex-Charlotte ferry will be half-price when purchased between 10 a.m. and noon the day of the event, courtesy of the Lake Champlain Transportation Co.
For pedestrian safety, the main street of the hamlet will be blocked from vehicular traffic. This will not affect those using Route 22, but people wishing to go or come from Lakeshore Road will have to take a slight detour.
Downtown Essex Day, sponsored by the community-based Essex Initiatives, will be held rain or shine.
Email Alvin Reiner:
rondackrambler@yahoo.com
