Street fair lovers, rejoice: The New Ulm Chamber of Commerce is pairing with Maker Fair Minnesota to host the town’s first ever outdoor artisan showcase, MakerFest, on Oct. 3.
“We’re trying to keep it in the spirit of Oktoberfest,” said Chamber of Commerce president Michael Looft, explaining that the city decided to get creative for this year’s traditional German celebration.
Minnesota purveyors of hand-crafted goods will sell their wares from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in New Ulm’s historic downtown. Tables and booths will span the sidewalks from Center Street down to 3rd Street.
Visitors to MakerFest can expect to find everything from homemade facemasks and clothing to wood carvings and art. Maker Fair Minnesota is also providing food stands with carnival-style treats like cheese curds and corn dogs. Local restaurants like Joanie’s and Turner Hall are planning to offer German specials.
We’re a very historic town, we have tons of crafts, and it just fit New Ulm and the spirit of our community.Michael Looft
Looft said that the city is proud to offer another way to celebrate its heritage.
“The MakerFest was really not just a substitution for Oktoberfest,” Looft said. “We’re a very historic town, we have tons of crafts, and [MakerFest] just fit New Ulm and the spirit of our community.”
After browsing the vendors, visitors can stop by 1 North State Street for Music on the Steps, a free outdoor concert hosted by the State Street Theater. The concert will last from 2-6 p.m. and will feature local music groups, including Machiko, the Donner Party, and Dick Kimmel and Kelly Coyle.
