The Mathews Market Days Committee has a weekend full of activities planned for the 42nd annual festival Sept. 9-10, which is expected to draw thousands from near and far. Most Market Days booths and the food court will open at 9 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 9, while more organized activities are scheduled throughout the day on Saturday, Sept. 10.

Saturday will kick off with the Market Days Run/Walk at 7:30 a.m. next to Best Value supermarket. Sponsored by the Mathews Family YMCA, all proceeds from the run/walk will benefit the Y’s Annual Giving Campaign, which ensures that everyone, regardless of financial ability, can take part in Y activities and services. This event is open to all ages and abilities. To register, contact the Y at 804-725-1488.

The Show ’N Shine Car Show, hosted by the Classic Cruisers Car Club, will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday at Thomas Hunter Middle School and will continue until 3 p.m. The show is open to all vehicles, even motorcycles, and the entry fee is a donation of your choice to the Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters. Awards will include best in show, first-, second- and third-places, sheriff’s choice and mayor’s choice.

For more information, visit www.ccccofva.org/events.html.

Soon after the start of the car show, Buttons the Clown will make a special appearance at the Market Days Pet Parade, which is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. at the main stage. Registration for the pet parade begins at 9:30 and pets must either be kenneled or on a leash.

Entertainment on the main stage will begin at 11 a.m. and will feature a variety of musical groups throughout the day. For those who want a break from the sun, more musical entertainment throughout the day Saturday will be found inside Westville Christian Church, located just across Main Street from the main stage.

Visitors to Market Days are also encouraged to stop in Tompkins Cottage to view the current exhibit there, “Sally Louisa Tompkins—A Chronology,” which traces the life of the first and only woman to receive a commission in any American Army until nurses were commissioned in World War I. Tompkins was a Mathews native who was born and spent her youth at Poplar Grove Plantation. The exhibit also covers her life in Norfolk, Richmond and Port Royal.

Throughout the day, children are invited to visit the Children’s Corner, which will feature a variety of games and activities for the younger generations.

Craft, Home Products Fair

A staple of Market Days weekend is the Craft and Home Products Fair, which consists of items that have been handmade during the past year. On sale this year will be items that have been knitted, crocheted, quilted, woodworked, sewn, embroidered and more. Awards will be given for Best in Show, Honorable Mention and more.

For more information on Market Days, visit www.mathewsmarketdays.com, call 804-725-7700 or e-mail mathewsmarketdays@gmail.com.