Makers ready for summer market

With the Baxter Fall Market a runaway hit, the crew is back this summer to try it again. The Baxter Summer Market will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 15 on Main Street between Fox Avenue and Station Street and will feature more than 40 vendors with a wide-range of goods guaranteeing something for everyone.

“Our vendors offer everything starting with baked goods, wood working, dog treats, flowers, antiques, soaps, goat milk products, jewelry, home decor, children’s clothes, art, the list truly goes on,” organizer Amanda Moorman said. “The Baxter Chamber of Commerce will even have their own booth/table to give you all the information on the happenings around Baxter, and we have some great swag items you will want to check out, as well.”

The summer event is a followup to the fall market which was held in October 2023. It was the first time the Chamber put on a market and it was a huge success.

“We ended up having about 30 vendors and food trucks together. Despite the frigid weather that made its appearance, we had an amazing crowd show up to support our local vendors,” Moorman said. “We had incredible feedback from the community, visitors and vendors all together and a lot of them asked to make our markets a more than once-a-year event.”

Local businesses will also be in on the fun. The shops will be open and some will even have their own booths with the vendors.

“We are most excited to see everyone join together again and support all of our local vendors and just enjoy a day here in Baxter,” Moorman said. “Truly, seeing the street filled at our fall market was a feeling that I’m not sure we could ever forget. These vendors are some of the best and we just can’t wait to share them with everyone.”

Along with the market, the Hillbilly Bike Ride will also be heading through Baxter. The annual bike ride that starts in Bondurant, stops in Mingo, then stops in Baxter before turning around and heading back. There will be a live band at Benola’s Pub & Patio as well as fun specials throughout town, as well.

“Our main purpose is to invite anyone and everyone from all over to our amazing little community,” Moorman said. “We want to continue sharing all the good from our small town with others while promoting the importance of supporting all our local friends, as well.”

Vendor spots are still available for anyone interested. To join in the fun, contact Moorman at moormans309@gmail.com.