Scott Williams, swilliams@wolfrivermedia.com
Leader Photo by Scott Williams Artist MaryAnn Krause adjusts some of the handmade wreaths that she displayed during the Maxwell Street Day shopping event in downtown Shawano.
Leader Photo by Scott Williams Shoppers enjoy free samples of a 20-pound chocolate turtle outside Old Glory Candy, 108 E. Division St., during the Maxwell Street Day event.
Downtown Shawano had a day in the sun Saturday with a new event that brought out crowds of shoppers for sidewalk sales and other special surprises.
It was the first presentation of Maxwell Street Day, an event designed to re-energize the downtown shopping environment by enticing shoppers with new attractions.
Patrons and merchants alike applauded the concept that was borrowed — name and all — from an old-style outdoor fair concept popularized in Chicago many decades ago.
“They have a lot of variety of stuff here,” said Pat Hughes, who joined the crowd of shoppers looking for deals, sampling foods and soaking in the atmosphere on a warm Saturday afternoon.
The event continued from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in what organizers hope will become an annual event to showcase downtown businesses.
Merchants got into the spirit by setting up sidewalk sales, introducing new products and even handing out free samples to add to the festivities.
At the home and garden gift shop known as Til The Cows Come Home, owner Mary Zimanek invited patrons to meet some of the artists whose work is featured in the store. Zimanek credited the special event with drawing a bigger-than-usual crowd to the store.
“I think it’s excellent for the downtown,” she said.
The Shawano Business Improvement District, which represents more than 100 downtown businesses, organized the event with help from a few key merchants.
The day started with a 5K fun run, followed by special sidewalk attractions, outdoor dining at restaurants and live music by a jazz combo from Shawano Community High School. Shoppers strolled up and down Main Street and along nearby Division Street.
For MaryAnn Krause, it was an opportunity she had been waiting for to promote her new business making handmade wreaths. From a sidewalk vendor booth, Krause spent the day introducing herself to shoppers and inviting them to browse her colorful creations.
Krause said she was excited for the chance to participate in the inaugural Maxwell Street Day. She hopes to return next year, if the event occurs again.
“It turned out really nice,” she said.
Shopper Kathy Zais applauded the event, too, saying it was nice to see Shawano recognized for something other than its beautiful lake and vacation attractions.
Zais was especially pleased to see so much of the downtown shopping event outdoors and under the sun.
“I like to be outdoors,” she said. “Our summers are so short, you have to enjoy every minute you can.”