While it’s not technically fall yet, the annual Harvest Market is the unofficial start to the autumn season. It returns this year to the 13th Street District from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sept. 11.
Attendees can expect to see more than 35 vendors from Marshalltown and Central Iowa (some new this year) selling handmade art, baked goods, produce, canned goods and more during the makers’ market, which will be open from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Pumpkins, flowers, pottery, woodworking items, seasonal vegetables, meats, cookies and more can be had.
Debuting in 2015, the yearly festival offers something for everyone.
“We are excited to welcome our community and guests alike to our annual Harvest Market! Not only is this our largest event of the year this is also our biggest fundraiser — where proceeds are invested directly back into the 13th Street District to maintain our 100 percent volunteer nonprofit, continue to provide future community events and activities, and used to fund beautification projects and maintenance of the current projects that make the ascetic of the district one you want to linger in and visit often,” said Board President Heidi Draisey.
The night kicks off with the National Anthem and Color Guard at 5 p.m.
The kids’ corner will have activities from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., including a family photo booth.
“The Emerson Women’s Impact Network is sponsoring kids’ corner with volunteers and giving their time and materials with different STEM activities that are focused around space,” said Harvest Market Coordinator Christine Isom. “It is really a family-friendly, family-centered event where you can come out and see your neighbors. I like to think of it as the kickoff to fall because it’s the day before the Iowa/Iowa State game. Purchase items from local vendors to help celebrate football the next day. It’s a great time for early holiday shopping. Everyone’s back to school, and it’s just a great way to connect, spend time with neighbors and friends and enjoy great food and great vendors and great music all together.”
Food track alley will be up and running from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The wine and beer tents will open at 5 p.m. and close at 8:45 p.m.
Live entertainment has become a major element of the yearly event. The line up is as follows:
North Stage: 5 p.m., National Anthem, performed by Dr. Paul Hermansen on trumpet and Billy Wilson on drums; 5:10 p.m. to 5:55 p.m., Brian Herrin; 6 p.m. to 6:45 pm., 4neys; 6:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Jonah Seymour.
South Stage: 5:15 p.m. to 6 p.m., Buz Owen; 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., Trevor Parrish; 6:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Mike Bernard.
West End Pavilion Main Stage will see Not Quite Brothers perform from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
There will be a moment of silence while “Taps” is played at the Iowa Veterans Home at 7:30 p.m.
Isom said the event wouldn’t be possible without its Diamond Sponsors Emerson and Novaspect; Silver Sponsor First Rate Real Estate; and Bronze Sponsors Gallagher Insurance and Marshalltown Company.
Last year’s Harvest Market saw more than 3,500 attendees.
Since parking is limited, the public is welcome to park at the nearby Iowa Veterans Home and take a shuttle down to the festival. The shuttle has a lift and it is wheelchair-accessible. The shuttle will be running every 15 to 20 minutes from the IVH parking lots and dropping off at the IVH guard gate at 13th and Summit.
Volunteers are always needed, with duties ranging from vendor escort, greeter, street close/set up, clean up, assistance with the bands, kids’ activities aid, and more. Sign up here: https://www.trackitforward.com/site/462764/event/1252757
The 13th Street District is home to several businesses, eateries, West End Park and futsal courts, Yoga in the Park and public art displays including murals and the “Echo” sculpture.