Orange will host its first annual Artisan Fest & Vendor Fair on Thursday, June 17, the Orange Economic Development Corporation has announced.
The all-outdoor event, which is free and open to the public, replaces the Orange Business & Community Expo that ran for 17 years. The fair will run from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Orange Fairgrounds at High Plains Community Center, located at 525 Orange Center Rd.
“We are excited to present this new community-oriented event, giving business owners and artisans a chance to mingle with visitors outside. People are looking forward to outdoor events and it will be a great start to the summer,” said Annemarie Sliby, executive director of the OECD.
Over 60 vendors, including small business owners, artisans and farm market vendors will be participating. Visitors will be able to engage in product demonstrations, activities, shopping, raffles, food trucks and live music.
“Network with business vendors, visit Artisan Row and shop for that unique Father’s Day gift, grab a bite from our food trucks, and listen to the sounds of the The Sabb’s Brothers, who will be performing under the gazebo from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.,” Sliby said.
Exhibitor space is still available and registration is open. Vendor space is limited and is expected to sell out by May. Space includes a six-foot table, tablecloth and chair. All vendors will have their business information listed in the business directory, their business marketing materials included in event welcome bags and their company name listed in the Artisan Fest ad in Orange Life magazine. Businnesses unable to participate can still have marketing materials included in the welcome bags for $75.
Anyone interested in becoming a vendor can register online via the OEDC website at OrangeEDC.com/events_activities or call the OEDC office at 203-891-1045.