Local crafts, vendors to assist with Olmsted Park improvements

April 25, 2022 | Lauren LeBel
llebel@thereminder.com

Brick sidewalks have been added to Olmsted Park, but improvements to the grotto and grounds are necessary.
Reminder Publishing photo by Lauren LeBel

PALMER – Lamothe Block is presenting “Artisan Emporium” to assist in the restoration and preservation of the historic Olmsted Park.

On May 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the community is invited to Olmsted Park/Steaming Tender Restaurant, at 28 Depot St., to delve into unique finds from local independent creators, along with live music and food.

Scarlet Lamothe, of the Steaming Tender Restaurant, said the reason they are hosting this first-time event is to assist in the necessary improvements of Olmsted Park. She explained that the land dates back to the 19th century and was designed by Frederick Olmsted.

“We want to rejuvenate the park,” said Lamothe.

She continued, “Three summers ago we put in the brick sidewalks in the park.” The grotto, a rock arched water feature, currently has no water surrounding it. “Our goal is to put a liner in for a pond with a fountain that once used to be there,” said Lamothe. “Then on the New England Central Railroad side of the park, [we would like to] put a Victorian, period-style pavilion for shade and gatherings, and possibly down the line a fire pit.”

To assist with the funding of these ongoing projects, Lamothe said they are charging a $25 fee for all vendors at the Artisan Emporium. “The money [from the vendors] will go towards the restoration,” she noted.

Lamothe said they will have a “broad array” of vendors, consisting of several local businesses. Some of the vendors include Bina’s Boutique, D&E Farms and Clay Bae by Gina out of Palmer, Equilibrium from Brookfield and Made in America Metal Arts out of Belchertown, to name a few.

“We want to support all of these small businesses, especially during COVID-19,” said Lamothe. “We know how important [small businesses] are in the community.”

She went on to say that all the vendors will profit from the goods they sell to event goers.

In past years, Lamothe said they hosted a movie night with popcorn; however, this is the “first bigger event” in Olmsted Park. Moving forward, she said they would like to do a Christmas event and make use of the railroad carts that they have. “This is just the beginning,” she said.

There is no registration required for the Artisan Emporium. Lamothe said the Steaming Tender Restaurant will be open for food. She added that they have an outdoor canopy, an outdoor bar window and a cold drink cart that will be circling around.

Lamothe said parking for the event will be available at the restaurant and on South Main Street.

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