It's a sure sign that the end of summer is fast approaching when the Merchants and Artist Walk in downtown Marietta and Harmar Village hosts its last summertime event.
Hosted by nonprofit ReStore Marietta, the August Merchants and Artist Walk will run from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday. More than 35 retail shops featuring local and regional artists will share in the celebration of art, music and craftsmanship.
"There's just a lot of art on the street," said Tammy Wilson, event coordinator and retail staff member at Teri Ann's on Front Street.
Downtown Marietta will get a double dose of fun this weekend, thanks to the Rivers Trails and Ales Festival also being held there today through Sunday.
"It's a great time to come out and see your neighbors," said Mallory Greenham, executive director of ReStore Marietta. "Make a night of it."
"Everybody is friendly and festive and has a good time," Wilson noted.
Fact Box
If you go
What: Merchants and Artist Walk.
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday.
Where: Downtown Marietta and Harmar Village.
During the Merchants and Artist Walk, music is scheduled on the corner of Putnam and Front streets.
In addition, participating merchants will provide refreshments at every location.
"Teri Ann's always has a good cookie and drink, Schafer Leather Store has M&Ms and pretzels and Sugden Book Store serves ice cream cones," said Wilson.
Demonstrations will include one on how to make scarecrows by artist Kathy Mackey at American Flags & Poles. At Pocket Park, on the corner of Butler and Front streets, a pottery artist and chainsaw artist will also offer demonstrations of their crafts.
Jewelry artist Dixie Dunbar of Charleston, S.C., will sell her jewelry creations at Teri Ann's.
"Dixie really enjoys the atmosphere in downtown Marietta," said Wilson. "She has so much fun and loves it so much that she wants to come every summer."
Greenham said she expects the Merchants and Artist Walk to draw people from Columbus, Parkersburg and Athens.
"Any event we can bring outside people to Marietta is great," she added. "When we have a thriving downtown it's good for everybody."
The next Merchants and Artist Walk will be held Nov. 9.
"It's a kickoff to the holidays," said Wilson.
