Mathews Market Days drew an impressive crowd of more than 5,000 to the court green and Main Street area over the weekend, according to chairperson Morgan Hudgins.

The popular festival was back this year after two years of cancellations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Though this proved to be a significant obstacle, Hudgins said she was grateful for the extra time to plan and prepare as this was the first official festival she chaired.

Hudgins said the greatest success of Market Days this year was bringing back the children’s area to the county administration parking lot. Having Put-In Creek Pavilion act as the stage for the festival brought attention to a public space that some may not have previously realized is there, commented Hudgins.

The 44 arts and crafts vendors, 10 food vendors, and 13 informational booths all seemed to be pleased with their experience at Market Days, said Hudgins. Vendors and links to their sites, if applicable, can be viewed on the Mathews Market Days...