Murphy Despite a near rain washout and cooler temperatures, the Spring Festival still was a big success Saturday.
It was a return of the event for the first time since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Tennessee Street downtown Murphy was blocked off at 8:30 a.m. so vendors, food trucks and bands could set up.
Those who came out for the festival found plenty to see and do, and there was a constant crowd at the beer garden. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the music.
Vendors came with fun and interesting items, like intricately decorated candles, Steampunk hats, handmade furniture and birdhouses. The Sewing Studio had blankets sewn by Tracey McLean that were welcomed on the chilly morning.
Barred Rock Studios had stoneware pottery items of all sorts out on display by artist Leigh Ryan, while Christopher’s Chimes sparkled and sent beautiful sounds to the ears of anyone standing close to his booth. The chimes were made with various household items.
He’s had the idea for 20 years, but only started making them the past five.
Brightly colored handcrafted jewelry was on display made by Melissa Wendt of G&M Crafts. Meanwhile, her husband, George, was showing off his wooden cutting boards.
There was always a line at the face-painting booth with Grace Johnson of Grace’s Painted Faces. She was creating all kinds of designs on young, smiling faces.
A little 4-year-old named Isaiah Skirvin skateboarded around the festival. No one seemed to mind; in fact, many folks looked on in amazement of his talent.
At the opposite end of the music was the Valley River Humane Society, which was raising money for their cause by selling large bubble wands as their bubble machine filled their area with colorful floating balls.
Sylva Army Recruiters were signing men and women up for active and reserve duty. Sgt. First Class Michael Rohrer was spotted throughout the day playing cornhole and assisting event-goers with other games.
Plenty of people enjoyed the food trucks. Others just walked around with bags of kettle corn and other treats.
Carrie Keohane of Andrews was visiting.
“I think it’s great, we’ve bought a lot of stuff and been to a lot of the shops and the crafters are very nice,” she said. “Now we’re getting ready to go have some lunch at one of the food trucks here. So it’s been a great day out.”
Local law enforcement officers were on site keeping things safe, while various political candidates in the primary election were talking with folks. A dunk tank was there with the name of a sheriff’s candidate on it; however, he remained dry.
Despite inclement weather at times, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. The streets were filled with the sounds of enjoyable conversation and laughter.
Amy Barassi, who was out with her husband, Steve, said it was great.
“Even though it’s overcast and sprinkling rain, I think there’s been a good attitude and good atmosphere,” she said. “It’s a nice way to spend a Saturday.”
The Spring Festival was friendly to all pets. It attracted local residents and visitors alike, and many brought their moms out for a pre-Mother’s Day afternoon on the town.