Kirtland – The third weekend in September will bring people and crafters from all over to Kirtland, Ohio where the 35th Annual Village Peddler Festival will be held on September 17 (10am-6pm) and September 18 (10am-5pm) at Lake Metroparks Farmpark. The festival spans the beautiful Farmpark shaded grounds with continuous tents of handmade treasures and unique items. Enjoy dining under the trees while listening to live folk music.
Known as one of the best Ohio festivals, it is no surprise more than 175 juried craftsmen and artisans travel from all over Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Michigan to Lake County to sell their wares. All items are crafted and made in the manner of Americana, traditional, country, contemporary and fine art. Items include folk art, baskets, flowers, pottery, candles, soaps, wreaths, quilting, dolls, tole painting, stained glass, blown glass, Shaker brooms, birdhouses, jewelry, angels, beach glass creations, original art, clothing, hats, mittens, purses, Santas & snowmen, black bear art, woven rugs, slate paintings, photography, painted gourds, potpourri, wind chimes, and miniatures Fall and Christmas accents, vintage finds, twig furniture, garden art, wool appliques, clothing and more.
New this year is rustic furniture, lavender farm, garlic farm, watercolor art, fairy garden items, sandstone bird baths, scarecrows, wood pumpkins, wool felt, wool hooked décor, marionettes, wooden toys, sea glass jewelry, freshwater pearls and Windsor chairs.
Stroll the shaded paths of the festival while enjoying old time folk music performed by guitarist and soloist Bev Newbold both Saturday and Sunday from 10am-12pm and Saturday from 4pm-6pm along with Sunday from 4pm-5pm. The Silver String Band will perform both Saturday and Sunday from 12noon–4pm. New this year on Sunday playing from 12:30pm-2:30pm is Eric Sconyers, a 15 year old saxophone player.
Not only will the air be filled with music but also the aroma of food cooking over open fires, sure to tantalize the appetite. An array of food vendors will offer up delicious food selections such as creamed chicken and biscuits, gourmet pizza, smoothies, pulled pork, beef brisket, French fries, roasted corn on the cob and potatoes, homemade pies, ice cream, fresh lemonade, kettle corn, fudge and apple fritters. Visit the harvest and gourmet market filled with locally grown produce, plants, fresh and dried flowers, herbs, honey, maple syrup, jams, teas and coffees, candy, cookies, pastries and more.
The Local Culinary Marketplace will return featuring handcrafted food and specialty products by local Cleveland entrepreneurs. Items such as Carhop’s Burger Sauce -The only secret sauce you will ever need, The Bom Adult Truffles – made with love and alcohol, Montana Girl Mustard -one taste and you’ll be branded, fRed Hot Spice -handcrafted hot sauces and pickles, Peanut Butter Mill – all natural peanut butters, Randi’s Pantry- Jalapeno treats and traditional and spicy Jalapeno syrup, Red Lotus Foods – organic spreads and toppings, Heartwood Roastery – coffee by the cup and by the bag, Damon’s Potica – Ponnie’s original potica recipe and Back Attack Snacks – healthy natural flavored almonds.
The Village Peddler Festival is built on quality, uniqueness, and tradition. “Many people plan their fall around the Festival and attend every year,” states Roberta Rice, festival producer. “The beautiful location, unique shopping experience and easy accessibility from Cleveland, Akron and western Pennsylvania make for a wonderful day excursion.
All daily Farmpark activities on the 235 acre family friendly facility, wagon rides and corn maze are included at no additional cost to festival attendees. The festival captures America at its best and is guaranteed to charm attendees back to the simple way of life.
Bring the family and enjoy this quaint outdoor American marketplace in an incredible fall setting. Admission is $7, seniors (over 60) $6, children (2-11) $4 and children under 2 are free. Parking is free with gate drop-off and handicapped spots available. Groups and tours are welcome.
Lake Metroparks Farmpark is located at 8800 Euclid Chardon Road (Route 6) in Kirtland, Ohio 44094, just one mile east of Route 306 and 5 miles south of I-90 (Exit 193). For more information visit www.VillagePeddlerFestival.com or call 440-503-8414.
