2016 Mathews Market Days Food Court by Mike Hazelwood
Each year the weekend after labor day, Mathews County puts on a two day long event on it’s historic Court Green. Since 1975, Mathews has aimed to welcome its neighbors, and travelers from near and far to enjoy some of the best goods that it can offer. The festival features nearly a hundred booths with arts, crafts, information and history to showcase the many talents of a small town.
Market Days features a variety of events including: arts and crafts booths, a street lined with food trucks selling festival foods and seafood, homemade goods, live music and entertainment, a “Show ’N Shine” car show, a kids zone with plenty of rides and games, a pet parade, and a YMCA sponsored run/walk race. This market is perfect for people who enjoy getting lost in a maze of beautiful craftsmanship and variety of treasures small and large as well as local history and culture. Many of the vendors try to utilize, or embody the heart and life of Mathews by using bay-inspired work, or washed-up elements found right on our shores. Here you can find plenty of jewelry, home decor, clothing, and knickknacks that can make great gifts for loved ones! Just nearby there are plenty of boutique and antique stores and delicious restaurants waiting to fill your soul with comfort.
The festival is located in historic downtown Mathews where vendors, bands and activities are all set up along Main Street, the old Courthouse and Court Green. The Mathews Visitor and Information Center is also open to welcome visitors as well. The Bay School Community Arts center also has additional art displays and demonstrations by local artists. Park further down Main Street or take the shuttle from the nearby high school. Enjoy lunch and/or dinner along with snacks at one of the many food trucks along Court Street, or pop into one of the local restaurants to enjoy a sit down meal. Mingle with locals and enjoy a pint or two on the porch at Southwind Cafe or enjoy special wine tastings at White Dog Bistro.
Stay late on Friday night to enjoy some live music and dancing in the streets! The Bar at Mi Casa Azteca restaurant on the corner is right next to the festival stage so you can easily drift in and out to enjoy a cold drink, margarita, or round of pool. To make a full weekend of it, you can attend the Party at the Wharf event that takes place from 8am to 5pm the Friday of Market Days. For only a $5 cover charge, enjoy the waterfront scenery among locals, live music, seafood and dancing! Williams Wharf is only a 5 minute drive away from the Market, and 1.5 mile bike ride from town. You won’t need to travel far to experience the weekend long festivities, just make sure you plan ahead for parking and accommodations!
