GALLERY: Thousands Turn Out for 2011 Edina Art Fair

The throngs of people who crowded the streets of downtown Edina for the 45th annual this past weekend were greeted by warm, sunny weather. Rachel Hubbard, executive director of the 50th & France Business Association, said more than 90,000 people were expected to attend this year’s event.

Of course, art was not the only attraction at the event, as many people came out for the food, entertainment, kid’s activities and excellent people watching.

With all of the extra foot traffic downtown, one might expect business to be booming on such a busy weekend. Some businesses choose to shut down during the art fair, while others take advantage of it by offering specials and sales. It often depends on the nature of the business, according to Hubbard.

“The retailers that really embrace the art fair —they actually do really well,” she said, “They have AC, a place to sit, a little water. It’s a nice little break.”