Market on Maple returns

Shoppers can prepare for a day out this Saturday - the sixth annual Market on Maple is back and ready to welcome close to 50 vendors on Maple and Montgomery streets.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees will have the chance to find their favorite handmade products, fresh baked goods and more. The first 100 guests who check in at the welcome tent at the intersection of Maple and Adams streets will receive a free insulated cup.

Along with local vendors, shoppers will be able to chose from a variety of food options, from brick-and-mortar classics to visiting food trucks.

Food trucks will be located on the 200 block of Maple, with seating at the intersection of Maple and Montgomery streets where entertainment normally resides. Entertainment will move to Montgomery street near the Spotlight School of Dance. Scheduled performances will be a variety of Creston High School students, including Trinitie Smith, Kiya Capson, Drake Wilson and the the jazz choir.

Mini makers will continue to showcase their work this year, as well.

Though volunteers for the event are down this year, UCDA Director Mindy Stalker said those who do help have been fantastic.

“Jen Strunk has been a lifesaver for us. She’s volunteered every year to come at 6 a.m. and help check in vendors. It’s a job. It’s definitely a thankless job. She’s done an hour before any shoppers even show up, but super appreciative of that,” Stalker said. “We’ve got some FBLA volunteers that will be helping manage waste clean up, that sort of thing. Always thankful for the extra hands.”

Stalker also asked that attendees be mindful and patient with the construction happening Uptown.

“They might be a bit of an inconvenience this year, but in the end, the rewards will definitely be worth it,” Stalker said. “So just, if there’s construction equipment or orange cones up somewhere, please just respect those boundaries.”

Up-to-date information on the event can be found on their Facebook page.