Uptown Marion Market returns this weekend

MARION — The Uptown Marion Market returns to Seventh Avenue for a season kick-off at 8 a.m. Saturday.

The annual market, home this year to more than 40 vendors with fresh produce, wine, honey, baked goods and artisanal items, will be available from 8 a.m. to noon. The June 8 market also will feature entertainment including face painting, The Balloon Buffoons and performances by steel drum band Pandelirium.

The opening date converges with The Heritage Center’s annual pancake breakfast from 7 to 11 a.m. at the West End Diner Pavilion, 809 Sixth Ave. Tickets start at $5 for children and $10 for adults.

This year’s season will continue with markets on July 13, Aug. 10 and Sept. 28 from 8 a.m. to noon. The Aug. 10 date will feature a Youth Entrepreneur Fair in the Uptown Artway, where youths under 18 are welcomed to sell handcrafted items.

For a map and more vendor information, go to marioncc.org or facebook.com/marioniachamber.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.