Music, Vendors On Tap Saturday

By Jack Gurner
Reporter

MAIN STREET – Mickey Howley has become a keen observer of cloud patterns and other weather indicators after Mother Nature rained on his festival last year.

Howley, Director of the Water Valley Main Street Association, said that the long-range forecast looks great for this Saturday’s Main Street Market Fest. “I don’t want to put the jinx on the fest, so let’s just say we are hopeful and praying for good weather.”

The event kicks off the season for the downtown Farmers Market, highlights Main Street improvements, and focuses attention on local artists and crafters.

Activities get underway at 10 a.m. with opening remarks from WVMSA officials and Mayor Larry Hart.

Magic comes to Main Street at 10:10 a.m. when Steve Thomas brings his conjuring skills and comedy for the first time to the Main Street stage. Thomas, who is from Oxford, is also an accomplished and well-known balloon artist.

Musical entertainment is scheduled to begin around 11 a.m. with Brad Van Winkle.

At noon the Town and Country Garden Club will hold a dedication ceremony for the Railroad Park Clock in honor of the late Brownie Crawford. Bob Tyler will emcee the ceremony.

The music cranks up again at 1 p.m. with the Swinging Prevaricators. Other acts including Adam Gussow, Rocket 88 with GinGin Abraham, and John Paul Keith and the One Four Fives will follow during the afternoon.

All day long more than two-dozen vendors will offer food as well as arts and crafts.

“Bring your chair and set it in the middle of the street, it will be a full day’s worth of entertainment,” Howley said.