Bangor to welcome artisans market

BANGOR – A little cultural flair will be added this summer to downtown Bangor as the Outdoor Artisans’ Market takes over the banks of Kenduskeag Stream every Thursday from June 16 to July 21.

More than 30 Maine artisans will set up shop from 4 to 7 p.m., selling unique products that include jewelry, paintings, pottery, natural body products, home accessories and other handcrafted products.

“It’s an opportunity to buy functional artwork from local people,” Sally Bates, Bangor business and economic development officer, said this week.

Nine local eateries also will be scattered throughout the market. The Lunchbox Cafe, Epi Sub & Pizza, The Whig & Courier Pub and Thai Siam are among the restaurants that will hold concessions.

“It’s nice that people can buy food and eat while they shop,” Bates said.

Portrait and landscape artist Giovina Ferrante-George will be among the artists, offering quick portrait sketches in charcoal or pastel.

“Folks have expressed a desire for an arts program,” Bates said, adding that the events will run rain or shine.

Although musical entertainment will be set up during market hours, the Bangor waterfront will continue the day’s events by holding “Cool Sounds” concerts at 7 p.m. each Thursday.

Bands and musicians across the state will share sounds from all music categories.

The Dave Wooley Band will kick off the concert series, followed by Devonsquare, Richard Punzi, the 195th Maine Army National Guard band and One Five One. Cheepskates will wrap up the five-week event.

For information on this event and other happenings in downtown Bangor, visit www.downtownbangor.com.