The annual Allentown Art Show had a chilly and wet Saturday but finished with a flourish Sunday with warm air and blue skies.While the event didn't have the typical massive crowds baking in heat and sun, there was a large crowd after the rain on Saturday and people were buying. In contrast to past years, concession stands say they were selling to customers who wanted liquid refreshment, but it was more water than pop.
Merchants seemed happy, with Allentown Village Society President Mary Myszkiewicz saying the weather on Saturday kept those who didn't want to buy at home and brought those who did to Myszkiewicz says exhibitors seemed happy.
"The different one that I talked to, I said 'I hope today made up for yesterday.' Almost to a tee, they said 'We did fine yesterday,' because people who really wanted to buy something didn't mind coming in the drizzle," she says.
Camryn Kraus was there from her Brick and Mortar shop of art made from the bits and pieces of a house and house prints. Kraus says there seemed to be more money.
"This year people are buying more expensive items. Last year people were buying smaller items that were under the $25 range whereas people are now looking at the $75-100 range," Kraus says.
Fatima from M&M Links in Amherst, Massachusetts says the big earrings she makes sold well.
"Our earrings are very popular. We've actually sold a little bit of everything. We sold a little bit of the earrings, a little bit of the necklaces. A lot of earrings," Fatima said.
Merchants say art show visitors seemed to be spending a little more money than last year.
Russ DiPasquale from Family Affair Food Service says people ate everything.
"A little of everything actually. We sell a lot of chicken in a pita. We have smoked turkey legs...Philly cheesesteak, Italian sausage, a little of everything. It's going pretty good," DiPasquale said.
