photocredit: hayesmansion.com

BY: RACHEL SMITH

Yes, yes, it’s another post about Harvest Festival today.  But seriously, it’s such an amazing event in Clear Lake that it’s deserving of so many posts.

So we’ve covered the bands, the Iowa Distilling Company, the amazing prizes, the spectacular gift certificates.  But we haven’t yet touched on the many vendors that set up shop for this event.

And oh, baby, there’s a lot of them!

In the early morning on October 7th, the streets will begin to fill with vendors setting up their displays.  Many have elaborate presentations to showcase their amazing products.  They sit at these booths all day, interacting with people as they stroll by, hoping to spark their interest and make a sale.

Every year I’m one of these people lazily moseying up and down Main Street.  I mostly take my time examining all the cute handmade decorations, photos, clothing and jewelry.  I comment how adorable the clothing is and how much I love all the tasty options to buy jams, jellies, syrups and dip.  I try to purchase a few things here and there, mostly because their product looks amazing, and partially because after I’ve sampled all the wines buyer’s remorse flies right out the window.

See?  This event is the perfect combination of awesomeness!  

The varieties of items available to purchase are incredible.  Not only is there a vast array of home-based products… I’m talking Color Street, do Terra, LulaRoe, Norwex, Tastefully Simple, Pampered Chef, Tupperware, Usborne Books, Wildtree and Thirty-one.  But there are small businesses from around North Iowa that create true masterpieces.  Whether you’re looking to buy a rock for your front yard from B&D Creations, or a breathtaking print of Clear Lake from Julie’s Creative Photos, there’s something for everyone.

Stop at E&E Confections or Sweet Tooth for something to satisfy those sugar cravings.  Or stop at the Silver Lake Syrup Company booth to check out their syrups, honey, jams & jellies.

I’m thinking I could probably take care of about 5-10 Christmas presents if I really focus.  Teacher gifts, friend gifts, and maybe a little something for myself.

YES!  Best idea you’ve had all day, Rachel!

Now, for the icing on top of this already delectable cake – our wonderful downtown Main Street stores will ALL BE OPEN with remarkable deals and specials!  Be sure to stop by, say hello and do a little shopping inside.

If you haven’t already ordered your ticket and made plans with the girls to attend… you need to get on it!!!  All you have to do is click HERE.