DECORATE YOUR DOORS: LilyPad Designs had a full tent of festive door hangers for the season. Kim Johnson and Jill Holloway show off their new purchases.

THOMASVILLE- Downtown Thomasville held their inaugural Autumn Artisan Market on Saturday morning, drawing in huge crowds from around the area.

According to Downtown and Tourism Development Coordinator Angel Clemmons, the market saw approximately 28 vendors, ranging from pottery artists to local pumpkin farmers.

“All of these things are handcrafted goods,” Clemmons explained. “They all made this themselves or have a team that makes it with them. It’s all something unique.”

Residents were thrilled to have the opportunity to shop for various odds and ends to adorn their homes with this fall season. Clemmons said attendees began lining up at the Amphitheater at 10:30 a.m., despite the market not opening until 11.

Clemmons was excited to see the turnout, saying the Office of Downtown and Tourism Development mimicked the Autumn Artisan Market after their Rose Show Artisan Market, which is a consistent success.

“I think what’s really helped us is that people are so used to coming downtown on Saturdays for breakfast and shopping and they see these tents and it’s something new,” she said. “It’s been a great turnout so far.”

Clemmons explained that regardless of the dollar amount made on Saturday, she would see the event a success as long as the residents found value in the market.

“I think as long as our community finds value in this and continues to show up and show out like they’re doing right now, that is the dream,” she said. “It’s all about bringing people together and our surrounding areas saying this is something fun and unique. It also allows vendors to showcase their work leading up to the holidays.”

While Clemmons didn’t want to speak for the whole team, she does believe the Autumn Artisan Market will become an annual event individuals can look forward to, especially if the partnerships formed continue.

Hubs and Hops brought back their Farmer’s Market for the event, while Dana King performed live throughout the day, drawing people in.

“This is not just something our office does,” she said. “It’s a whole team effort.”

The team will continue to provide other activities throughout the fall season with a Family Movie Night at the Amphitheater on October 14, where kids can look forward to watching Casper the Friendly Ghost among friends.

To view all upcoming events, visit thomasvillega.com