OGDENSBURG — Vendors for the North Country Wine, Beer and Food Festival were hoping for a good turnout whether mother nature offers rain or shine for the event.
The festival, a major fund-raiser for the Greater Ogdensburg Chamber of Commerce, began Friday afternoon and will continue from noon until 6 p.m. today.
About 40 vendors are on hand, offering a sampling of north country fare ranging from cheese, wine and beer to sauces, fresh food and other artisan goods.
Jennifer R. Groff, Watertown, was busy setting up her booth Friday afternoon, which included specialty popcorn from Popcorn & Sweet Treats, and her other business, The Gifted Grape, offering wine accessories and novelty items. She said this is the second year she has set up shop at the Ogdensburg event, and that she was optimistic of a good turnout.
“It’s indoors if it rains,” she said.
Ms. Groff said her specialty popcorn, ranging in flavors from bacon and cheddar to salt and vinegar, are always big sellers.
Across the arena from Ms. Groff’s booth, Parishville artist Michiko Taylor was organizing a space for her watercolor art. Although not a food artisan, Mrs. Taylor said she feels comfortable at the annual event.
“I think art and cheese and wine go together,” she smiled.
Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Laura A. Foster said last year the wine, beer and food festival raised approximately $7,000 for chamber coffers. She said she’s hoping as many as 1,000 people attend this weekend.
“It’s good for tourism and bringing people into the community, which is my goal,” Ms. Pearson said.
Ms. Pearson said this year’s event is being held on Mother’s Day weekend, making it a good place to bring mom on a Saturday afternoon.
“You can pick up some flowers or wine for mom while she’s shopping,” she said,
In addition to inside vendors, a variety of food vendors are also setting up outside the Lockwood Civic Center doors. Some of the items being sold include pulled pork, salt potatoes and baked beans.
Admission is $5 at the door.