As warm weather returns, so do the crowds. That’s the plans for Marion’s Director of Community and Economic Development Ken Heath.
“We’re so excited to get back to the business of doing business,” said Heath. After two years of limited activities stemming from Covid restrictions, Marion is bringing a full slate of community activities and events. As part of that, the downtown association is partnering with local businesses to make sure customers know they’re there for them.
“Open for Business! That’s a great things to see!,” continued Heath. To celebrate that, Marion Downtown board member Tracy Thompson designed a colorful flag that participating businesses can purchase to hang out front to welcome customers and tourists, especially when they’re open late hours and extended weekend times during the summer.
In addition, Rachel Gibson of The Ford Studios kickstarted Marion’s “First Fridays” events last year, celebrating our community with special events, sales, and extended hours on the initial Friday night of each month. Those events continue to grow, and compliment both the first Saturday’s “Song of the Mountains” and the second Fridays “Artwalk” events hosted by the Appalachian Spirit Gallery.
The Marion Farmers Market opens Saturday, May 7, from 8 a.m. till noon, and Cruise Ins kick off Third Saturdays beginning May 21 with TriCities legend Mick Kyte. Memorial Day activities, including the Grand Parade Monday May 30 at 10 a.m. are set. The “Soon To Be World-Famous Hungriest Mother” Street Festival is set for the third weekend in July, in conjunction with the annual Hungry Mother Festival at the Park.
“Marion has packed the schedule with fun for the whole family,” said Heath. “From town events to Lincoln shows to live music at downtown eateries and programs at the Park and the new water park at the Marion Pool, folks will be hard-pressed not to be able to stay busy this year – and we love it!”
Marion’s “Open for Business” Signs are flying at the following local businesses:
Marion’s Automotive Connection
Rustic Hearth Home Décor & Design
Laurel Springs Farm Mercantile
Marion Outdoors
Just Believe Boutique
The Toybox
Cornett Jewelers
Sherwin Williams
The General Francis Marion Hotel
Brad’s tasty Dawgs
Blue Ridge Outfitters of Marion
Framing Unlimited
Sisters Café
Highlands Realty
Just Good Food Truck
The Smyth County Museum
Marion Downtown Resale Boutique
Rosewood Florist
McNeil Furniture
Smyth County Public Library
Massey’s Mercantile and Eatery
Hester’s Country Store and Fudgery
Broad Street Coffee and Treats
Slemp Brant Saunders Insurance
The Wooden Pickle
Helping Hands Thrift Store
The Bank of Marion
Collins House Bed & Breakfast
Moon Dog Brick Oven Pizza
Macado’s of Marion
Vencille Insurance Services
Clothed In Grace Thrift Store
The Appalachian Spirit Gallery
Mount Pleasant Preservation Society
Other Marion businesses interested in purchasing a flag may call Cyndi McCloskey at (276) 378-5029 or email [email protected]. Cost is $25.
