THE BRIGHT SIDE
Flea market season is upon us.
The first of the 2024 Antique Flea Market held at the Walworth County Fair Grounds is on May 19th, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Elkhorn Antique Flea Market, one of the largest flea markets in the Midwest, began in 1982. A set of collectors and antique dealers saw potential in a perfect setting at the Walworth County Fairgrounds for the start of something big. In the first year of the market, Knapp, an antiquarian with connections to other antique dealers, brought 15 to 20 vendors to the fairgrounds, using just a small amount of space near the north gate and North Hall. Each year, the market grew larger and larger and attracted more shoppers, some of whom would drive hours to be at the gates in the early morning.
Today, the show takes over the entire fairgrounds, a sprawling 99-acre site. The market is on four dates, between May and September, taking over the enormous Walworth County Fairgrounds in Elkhorn. There are also plenty of food vendors to choose from, as attendees wander around the rest of the flea market. Vendors offer everything from coffee to sweets, snacks, and sandwiches.
The following shows are June 30th, August 11th, and September 29th. Admission is $5.
The first ever Murals in Motion event. From Wednesday, May 15th, through Sunday, May 19th, the downtown will be full of activity. Wednesday and Thursday, muralists begin painting at 10 a.m. at various locations downtown and in Flat Iron Park. Friday the painting will continue, and the downtown sidewalk sales (like during Maxwell Street Days) will begin. Lake City Social will host a Parking Lot Party with live music Friday from 3 p.m. through 9 p.m. and continue the party Saturday and Sunday. There will be a Student Gallery Night from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday things will start to pop.
There will be more painting from the muralists and more sidewalk sales. Saturday and Sunday everyone can watch as artists paint and create live at a ‘paint in’ and enjoy live music from local musicians at different businesses all day throughout the downtown. There will be a family chalk activity and family-friendly arts and crafts in Flat Iron Park on Saturday and Sunday. There will be Saturday-only family yoga drop-in classes in the park that will take place from 12:30 p.m. through 4 p.m.
Remember to bring a mat or blanket. The only ticketed event during Murals in Motion is Saturday night. Alleyway Dinner (catered through the BID) is on but one must have a pre-purchased ticket to enjoy that activity. All other activities are free and expected to be fabulous. This inaugural event celebrates artistry, music, and local history made for all to enjoy. The downtown businesses, throwing in together through the Business Improvement District organization are doing their part to make Lake Geneva even better.
