Andrews — A success is the only way to describe the ninth annual Christmas on Main Street, which was held downtown Saturday morning and afternoon.
Bill Anderson, one of the event’s organizers, said, “We’re just thrilled to death. We’ve beat last year’s record of 120 vendors; this year, we have 196. We’re gonna have close to 6,000-7000 consumers helping us kick off the Christmas season.
“Andrews should be proud.”
Main Street, as well as side streets, were filled with various arts and crafts vendors. Music could be heard throughout the festival by live bands, church, school and other choirs, and food trucks lined the streets with savory smells.
The weather was under blue skies but cold, yet that didn’t stop vendors from coming out to the festival. Lee Dyer of Marble said, “It’s great. I’m doing some Christmas shopping, and I love the small-town feel that they have going on here.”
John Bouchard lives in Murphy. With a huge smile, he said, “This is fantastic. There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to come by and listen to the music, and look at the crafts, and buy those last-minute gifts for Christmas.”
Steven Lash with Sage Restaurant was giving away free food samples throughout the day. The new restaurant will be opening the first of the new year in Andrews and had no shortage of people stopping by for a coffee- and chili-braised beef short rib with succotash and sassafras demi glaze with house-made pickled radishes.
“We’re having a blast,” Lash said. “It’s been fantastic, and we’re excited to be here.”
The Victorian Carolers were singing as they walked up and down the festival streets. Wherever they went drew a crowd.
The car show was a favorite among car enthusiasts as well as those who were just curious. More than 20 colorful vehicles were poised to show off their uniqueness.
Chessney Flowers was walking around with gift bags. “I just had a baby and she’s a month old, so I bought a little hat for her,” she said. “I love that this community and town does this.”
Shoppers weren’t the only ones happy as vendors were also excited. Vanesse Robinson with Sweet Grass Baskets said, “I feel great, it’s nice being out here with a lot of vendors and tourists coming through. It’s nice.”
Kids were more than eager to run to Santa’s lap making sure they got their gift request in early. It was hard to tell if adults were accompanying the children or just putting their request in with Mr. Claus as well.
The choo-choo train made out of hay was also quite an attraction for young and older folks alike. Just in case, the Andrews Police Department was also in hand, making sure folks were behaving given the large number of people who came out.
Kids were running to get to the bounce house, while adults enjoyed a slower pace. At the end of the day, with the event winding down, the Andrews Christmas tree was lit, bringing a bright and shining close to a successful day for everyone.