Now that the warmer weather is back, outside events are becoming popular again.
One of the first to make its debut this year is the Spring FESTravaganza, close cousin to last year’s successful Fall FESTravaganza, which drew approximately 3,000 people.
From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 18, the first annual spring event will take place on the lawn outside Lysander Town Hall, located just after Radisson Corporate Park, on 8220 Loop Road in Baldwinsville. Coordinators Michael and Michelle Samoraj, in conjunction with the Lysander Parks and Recreation Department, have put together this event for families living in and around Baldwinsville.
“There was so much positive feedback after the fall event that we were excited to do it again, especially since it was great exposure for the farmers’ market vendors that were there,” said co-coordinator Michelle Samoraj. “It was one more way to let more people know about the market that is every Wednesday in the village.”
The main difference between the fall and spring events will be the offerings from the farmers. Instead of harvest vegetables and fruits, there will be starter plants for the vegetable garden, flower packs and hanging baskets just in time for Memorial Day weekend.
Additionally, there will be pony rides, bouncy houses and baby alpacas to pet. The Home Depot will set up a craft tent where kids do a project that they can take home with them.
“The Lysander Parks and Recreation Department does a great job setting up games to entertain the kids like miniature golf and mini basketball,” Samaraj said.
Food vendors such as Gypsie Girl Wood-Fired Pizza; Smoke, Incorporated BBQ and other food trucks will also be in attendance. Musical entertainment will include Tom Gilbo, an Elvis impersonator; and DAMDOG, a blues band out of Oswego.
Organizers are also making special efforts to help fund the Baldwinsville Pep Band.
“We are honored that the Baldwinsville Pep Band is going to perform and, in return, we are trying to make them as much money as possible to help them prepare for their trip to New York City to play in the Macy’s Day Parade,” she said.
Donation baskets specifically for the pep band will be set up at the event and sponsorships will be offered where all proceeds will go directly to the band. Contact gbcfarmersmarket.com for more information.
Other proceeds will go to the 50-some small business owners who participate, Samaraj said.
