To attract more people to downtown Fulton, events are planned each Saturday in the downtown Brick District, says Danielle Warren, chairman of the association's Saturday events committee.
Warren said creators of local crafts, local artists, and the Fulton Farmers Market will participate in the weekly Saturday events starting on May 4 and ending on Oct. 26.
Local musicians also have been invited to perform during the events, providing a more festive atmosphere.
When the weather is favorable, many downtown businesses will have special sidewalk sales and other themed promotions to create events to attract visitors and shoppers.
Warren said the 5th Street block in front of the Callaway County Courthouse will be blocked off each Saturday during the summer to provide space for crafts and arts displays, Farmers Market and musicians.
"Brick District businesses are so pleased that we will have many extra attractions to draw people downtown each Saturday," Warren said. "This will make each Saturday more of a social event with everyone cooperating and benefiting. It brings the community together and celebrates our local artists. We also hope people will eat and shop downtown as well. This will boost our local economy. It's all about thinking locally."
Warren said craft and art sales will be limited to items created by local residents. Sales of purchased items for resale or foreign-made items will not be permitted.
"The local requirement," Warren said, "is the only restriction on crafts and art other than everything sold must suitable for a family event and appropriate for the general public. We are not charging for craft sales space. Local crafts people wanting to participate can set up their own tables and shade in the 5th Street area in front of the courthouse. It's free and the Brick District Association does not make any money on their sales. Business owners in the Brick District Association are delighted that members of the Fulton Farmers Market voted to relocate to downtown. This will help create a more community-oriented event. It also will become more of a social event with entertainment as well."
Warren said local musicians and entertainers wanting to provide free performances are also welcome to participate at no charge to them. "There will be no payment to them. Performing musicians can keep whatever tips they receive," Warren said.
A member of the Brick District Association board of directors, Warren and her husband Brian own and operate Well Read Books at 519 Court St. in Fulton.
Warren said any crafts person, artist, or local musician wanting to participate in the Saturday free events can contact her at the book store or call her at 642-6181 for more information.