ALGONQUIN, IL — Pumpkins aren't the only things popping up around Algonquin this fall.
Dozens of local makers, bakers, artists and young entrepreneurs will take over Main Street Saturday when the Algonquin Harvest Market returns to historic downtown for its ninth year.
The free outdoor market will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 3, rain or shine, along Main Street in downtown Algonquin.
Hosted by the Algonquin Rotary Club, the annual event mixes a traditional fall farmers market with handmade goods, specialty foods, live entertainment and activities for children. Proceeds from the event support the Rotary Club's community initiatives and service projects.
This year's vendor lineup includes local artists and jewelry makers along with sellers offering honey, sourdough bread, gourmet cookies, cinnamon rolls, fresh flowers, pottery, pet treats, teas, produce and other handmade and homegrown goods. Other offerings include live custom engraving, handmade fantasy creatures, permanent jewelry, mystery novels, all-natural skincare products and 3D-printed toys.
Young entrepreneurs will get their own piece of Main Street through the market's Mini Makers Market. The program gives children qn opportunity to operate their own booths and sell items they've made themselves alongside the event's adult vendors, according to Harvest Market officials.
The market's current lineup includes a young vendor selling crocheted stuffed animals, with additional participants expected.
Visitors can also catch live entertainment and children's games throughout the day. Open mic will be underway from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Nick Madsen will be performing from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Zeldad will take the stage from 1 to 4 p.m.
At 3 p.m., the Downtown Algonquin Duck Race will take place on Crystal Creek. The Downtown Algonquin Association will send rubber ducks into Crystal Creek from the Town Park bridge, with the finish line just beyond the Main Street bridge. The race is held in conjunction with Harvest Market and serves as a fundraiser for the downtown organization.
The owner of the winning duck will win $1,000. Second and third place prizes will be gift baskets filled with gift cards and goods from local merchants.
Admission to the Algonquin Harvest Market is free and the event will be held rain or shine.
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