Businesses Welcome New Vendors to Homecoming Fall Festival Street Fair

In an effort to drum up more excitement and higher attendance for this year’s Homecoming parade and fall festival street fair Oct. 20, the Garden City Chamber of Commerce has opened up the venue to a variety of craft and gift vendors.

Vendors will set up along the northern side of Seventh Street from Key Food to Hilton Hall, according to John Wilton, chairman of the Merchants, Professionals and Retailers Group, who teamed up with Alan Finchley of Nassau County Craft Shows to bring in additional vendors.

In response to this news, a majority of business owners are embracing the addition of new vendors and merchandise.

Things and Stuff owner Teresa Adams will be joining the outdoor festivities by offering unique Garden City inscribed items she designed specifically for the fair. Items will include baby bibs, soft throw blankets crafted in sweatshirt material and rugby striped fleece bags in a range of colors. All these items feature the Garden City “Established in 1869” insignia.

Adams, a Garden City high school graduate who has her own fond memories of Homecoming, is eager for the opportunity to build additional traffic and generate more spirit.

Sunflower Fine Art Galleries, Mirrors & Picture Framing always sets up outside to speak to attendees who are interested in art or framing and they will continue to do so this year.

"Sure we'll set up a display or some sort," the owner said. "Why not. Great exposure at a little cost. A no-brainer."

A New Leaf, the new tea shop on Seventh Street, will be celebrating its grand opening on the day of the fair. Owner Kimberly Orlic will be handing out sample teabags, cookies and pastries.

Seventh Street Stationery is also on board and will be selling cards and toys.

Pear Tree owner Jan McDonough advised they will be out selling in front of her shop too.

Regarding the new vendors, McDonough responded, “It’s great to draw people in; it’s a great event and the more vendors the better.”