By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
Bazaar on the Bricks Sidewalk Sale in the heart of Hays will be a day for vendors, businesses and nonprofits to set up shop.
The event is set for 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.
Executive Director of the Downtown Hays Development Corp. Julie Rider said 12 downtown businesses will have racks on the streets outside their stores, offering great deals alongside businesses from other areas.
"We've got several home-based businesses coming in from jewelry, crafts, clothing and fundraising groups," she said.
The annual sale spans Main Street from Seventh Street to 12th Street and will feature Big Brothers Big Sisters, United Way of Ellis County, High Plains Mental Health and Ceena's Massage.
While discovering various businesses and organizations for free, grab a bite from food vendors such as the Oilers Cheerleaders, Paisley Pear, Feeding Hays or Breathe Coffee House.
The regular Downtown Hays Market will be under the Pavilion, featuring more than 25 vendors and home-based businesses. On Saturday, the market will extend its hours from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Jumper of Hays Rental was planned to set up a jump house but needed to cancel. Next to the pavilion, young attendees can still find a fun colorful activity.
"We'll also have a chalk art station by the Convention Visitors Bureau for the kids," Rider said.
The event was previously known as Sidewalk Bazaar, starting in 1963, and has undergone several changes, Rider said. It was originally intended as an annual back-to-school clothing sale for downtown businesses.
The event now includes a broader range of businesses and charities in Ellis County and assists with inventory management as the fall season approaches.
"This is sort of a way for them to clear out their summer merchandise," Rider said. "We've also added the opportunity for nonprofits to come down."
Nonprofits could participate for free, while downtown businesses paid a $50 fee, and all other businesses paid $75. Vendor registration is now closed.
Bazaar on the Bricks starts Saturday morning and continues into the afternoon, but arriving early is recommended to make the most of the experience, Rider said.
"Come down early for the best bargains. Set your alarm and be here at seven," Rider said.
You can find more information on The Bricks in Downtown Hays website and follow them on Facebook.