By JAMES BELL
Hays Post
The first Downtown Hays Market is set to return Saturday morning, with many regular vendors ready to return and a mix of new vendors.
Beginning this week the market is scheduled from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through October 23 at the Downtown Pavilion in Union Pacific Park, 110 E 10th St.
"We are very excited. We have a ton of new vendors that have already signed up," said Downton Hays Development Corporation executive director Sara Bloom.
Those vendors will bring a wide variety of items to the market, from fresh produce, stained glass, custom handmade candles, clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, fresh honey and more.
"We have vendors coming from Nebraska. We have vendors coming from Missouri," Bloom said. "Of course, we have the same vendors that you know and love that will be coming back, like Svaty's Produce. Several new produce vendors have signed up. Several new craft vendors have signed up. ... There is going to be so much there this summer."
And while the season is likely to be bigger than ever, Bloom said the first market of the season brings with it a unique energy.
"The first market is one of my favorites. Everyone is just so excited for the season to get started that they come out in hoards," Bloom said.
She also said the end of a year of COVID-19 precautions will likely drive more people to the market as life returns to normal.
Attendees of the market this year will also be able to take advantage of all of the updates to the park and pavilion, including the newest addition a train sculpture from local artist Pete Felten.
"It's crazy. The pavilion has been there for two years now," Bloom said. "We keep improving the space. ... We added the parking lot and the Pete Felten train sculpture and security cameras last year, and we are continuing to look for ways we can build up that area because that really has become the primary gathering place for outdoor events on the Bricks," Bloom said. "It's been absolutely wonderful, and I hope the community is enjoying it."
For more information about the market visit the DHDC website, downtownhays.com/downtown-hays-market or visit their facebook page.