An idyllic summer's eve provided a perfect backdrop for Downtown Orillia's Night Market Friday evening.
The great weather, festive atmosphere and array of vendors drew a big crowd to the event, which took over the block of Mississaga Street between West Street and Andrew Street. There were various vendors, lots of street meat, an opportunity to do some chalk art on the main street, try a hula hoop and listen to some Caribbean music from Toc-Nice.
There were also vendors inside the Geneva Event Centre as part of the popular downtown event.
While the Night Market will end at 9 p.m., it's just the beginning of a busy weekend downtown. On Saturday, the main street and the Peter Street Arts District will be transformed into a Downtown Summer Block Party. The party gets underway at 9 a.m. Saturday morning
The fun-filled event is a fusion of on-street art, street eats, a kids' zone complete with giant bouncy castles, fun water features, on-street games, fire and juggling street performers plus amazing music throughout the downtown.
Don't forget about all the sizzling sidewalk sales and discounts that Downtown Orillia is known for, said Courtney Thompson, event and marketing director for Downtown Orillia.
Artists such as Steve Henry & Band, The Imbayakunas, Mountain of Wolves, Isabella Hoops, Samantha Windover, The Little Big Band, Hobo Jam, Kobbler Jay and the Neema Children's Choir along with amazing local artists will be positioned throughout Mississaga and Peter Street all day long with Johnson Crook taking the main stage near Dollarco at 12 p.m.
“There will be lots of fun for the whole family at this awesome summer themed event. Check out the kid and family zones featuring bouncy castles, obstacle courses, water fun, plus face painting for the kids,” says Thompson. "Visit the Artisans Village on Peter Street and shop for amazing summer sidewalk deals that you'll only find at downtown shops.”
Thompson is thrilled with the excitement and interest this fun summer event creates and enjoys watching it grow every year.
"The Summer Block Party is the perfect family-oriented downtown event and promises to have a little bit of something for everyone,” says Thompson.
