By Rich Larson
Formerly known as the Home & Garden Show, the Northfield Community Market Fair returns this Saturday with a broader community focus, more family activities and more than 100 vendors filling the Dundas Dome from 9am to 3pm. In a recent episode of Chamber Chat, Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce President Jane Bartho, joined by Melissa Mueller and Rachel Trnka, described the fair as a one-stop celebration of home, garden, health, leisure and local business.
The event will feature a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions, giving visitors plenty to explore regardless of the weather. Organizers said guests can expect everything from home and garden exhibitors to food samples, shopping and hands-on family fun. Outside, the Army is expected to bring a towering rock-climbing wall, while kids can also check out trucks, tractors and possible appearances by a race car and farm animals. Inside, vendors will offer products, services and giveaways, with about 10 youth booths showcasing creative items such as handmade tackle, recycled art and fidgets.
Food is also a major draw. Attendees can look for a coffee truck, barbecue, pupusas and samples from local favorites including Ruth’s on Stafford and Jana’s Market Grill. The Blast plans to serve affogatos in the morning and cookie dough sundaes later in the day. Families can also enjoy gymnastics activities, a tumbling area for kids and henna art.
One popular tradition returns with the passport promotion: visitors can collect stamps from participating booths and enter for prize drawings that include Chamber Bucks, gift cards, flowers and other giveaways. With shuttle service available from overflow parking, chamber leaders say the fair is designed to be easy, welcoming and full of reasons to stay awhile. For Northfield-area residents, the Community Market Fair promises a lively spring showcase of local energy, creativity and community spirit.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
