By Jenn Lin
KYMN News Intern
The Riverwalk Market Fair is nearing the end of its season in Bridge Square, but plenty of activity is still ahead in October – including this weekend’s super-sized “fall celebration” market.
Market Manager Kari McMartin said the Oct. 10 market will feature more than 75 vendors, a number large enough to require expanding the event beyond its usual Bridge Square boundaries.
Typically, the market can accommodate about 64 vendors, so Saturday’s market will require “sort of closing down Fourth Street in front of the [Cottage Tea Room & Fare],” McMartin said. “We’re bringing in all sorts of fun extras, like aerial performers from Stomping Ground Studios.”
In addition to acrobats, McMartin said the market will feature goats and visits from Northfield fire trucks.
“It’s gonna be a big party,” she said.
Vendors said it’s been a good season for the market – even as buyers and sellers have dealt with a changing economy.
Gerie Thelen, owner of Just Me Geralyn & Glass and one of the original artists of the market, said people seem to be looking to “buy small, little things that make them happy.”
“People just come in and even if they can’t afford it, they can just see the beauty of the art,” she said. “It isn’t always about selling, it’s about sharing what you love to do.”
Earl Weinmann, a retired social studies teacher who now owns Weinmann’s Weenies, donates some of the money he earns at his hot dog business to the Northfield History Center, where he runs the Junior Posse. He said it’s been a strong year for business and fundraising.
“I think it’s busier this year,” he said. “I also see regulars now. I’m coming to know people that come almost every week. So it’s, I think, more fun for me because I get to know my customers better.”
The Riverwalk Market Fair’s final dates for the fall are this Saturday, Oct. 10, and then Oct. 17, 24 and 31. Indoor winter markets will be held Nov. 21, Dec. 5 and Dec. 19 at Northfield Middle School and on Dec. 10 in Armory Square during Winter Walk.
McMartin said the winter markets will feature some new vendors, including one offering syrups.
“There’s someone who’s making hot waffles with all sorts of crazy toppings, that you can choose to have on top of it,” she said. “Of course, there’ll be fewer farmers because produce isn’t growing that healthy here … that’ll be a really great place to purchase holiday gifts, especially because shopping local is important.”
Jenn Lin is a reporter for the St. Olaf Messenger and an intern with KYMN News. Contact her through Rich Larson at rich@kymnradio.net
