May Fair Watch: 12 Hours And Counting

Collingswood's largest annual event, the 32nd Annual May Fair, is less than 12 hours away.

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow, Saturday, May 28, an estimated 50,000 people will filter into the borough, as Collingswood Partners hosts its acclaimed May Fair, bursting with hundreds of vendors, crafters, live music and food.

More than a mile stretch of Haddon Avenue's business district will be filled with 
May Fair-goers, a section of which is designated for the kids—inside the KidZone, children are in for carnival-style games and rides, child-centered crafts, even rides on real ponies.  

And the 2011 May Fair, according to Collingswood Borough Commissioner Joan Leonard, is going to be the largest in history.

"This year, (May Fair) is bigger than ever," said Leonard Friday afternoon. "In recent years, we've gone from three stages (of live music), to four, and now to five stages of music this year."

According to borough officials, the five stages will permeate the borough with sounds of blues, folk and rock music.  

When asked what's contributed to this year's larger-than-life event, Leonard didn't skip a beat.

"The enthusiasm of our volunteer group this year is unstoppable," said Leonard. "It's absolutely going to be a great day."

And there's something for everyone, including a classic and antique auto show. Harley Davidson motorcycles will be on display, competing for May Fair honors.

But no need to leave the all-day extravaganza for lunch and dinner breaks—May Fair's several food courts will provide access to festival goodies, with dishes ranging from funnel cake to pulled pork. 

Collingswood Farmer's Market vendors will also be on-site, offering fresh produce, plants and hand-made goods. 

Parking is known to fill up quickly, so arrive early and begin the search for a spot. The borough recommends scouting the PATCO high speed line lot along Atlantic Avenue, on side streets running perpendicular to Haddon Avenue, and in the , at the intersection of Atlantic and Collings avenues.

Collingswood Mayor James Maley's message to residents and visitors: everyone's in for quite a treat.

"It is going to be an absolutely beautiful day tomorrow," said Maley of the fair.

Editor's Note—May Fair guests should keep an eye out for Collingswood Patch, who will host a booth near the other community organizations at May Fair. Collingswood Patch Editor Deena DiBacco, and other familiar Patch faces like Lauren Burgoon, will be on-site, handing out free Patch merchandise—bags, stickers, pens, and more. Bring the kids! Patch staff will be offering free face painting all day long. We'll see you there!