ESCANABA - Overcast skies didn't stop bargain hunters and local downtown businesses from participating in the Banana Bash Sidewalk Sales Friday in Escanaba.
Local merchants participating in the annual event said business was steady throughout the day.
Leo Evans, of T&T Hardware, said while the day may have started out overcast, it was ending on a high note with blue skies and sun.
"It may have started out slow, but overall we are very happy for the day and thankful for all the people who turned out," said Evans.
Nancy Williams, who was also a vendor for sidewalk sales, echoed Evans comments. The day started off slowly and gradually became more active, she said.
Williams, who is originally from Atlanta, Ga., brought with her a unique style of jewelry which appealed to younger patrons.
"What I have is an eclectic style of jewelry, using antique and costume jewelry changing it ever so slightly so as to give it a new panache," said Williams.
She said while she thought her jewelry would appeal to families with younger children, she was surprised to find her target cliental was teenage girls.
In addition to merchants displaying their wares, State Bank of Escanaba provided a free petting zoo for children of all ages.
As part of the petting zoo, children were able to see several chickens up close, and had the opportunity to pet a rabbit or a baby pig.
Behind the petting zoo, Michelle Czygan of Party Time Pony provided children with an opportunity to ride a pony.
"It has been pretty steady today, and the children really seem to enjoy the rides. We have been coming down for sidewalk sales for the past few years now,"said Czygan.
Mary Ring, of Escanaba, turned out for sidewalk sales with her grandchildren, Samantha and Daniel Sexton.
"The kids wanted to look around and they also wanted to see the petting zoo," said Ring.
Also heading out for the day was Christopher Germain of Escanaba. He was one of several people inspecting the movies and music albums being offered by Record Rack.
When asked what brought him down to sidewalk sales, Germain said it was to check out the music and movies at Record Rack, and also to listen to the band playing near Schooner's Cafe.
"I know some of the people working the sound system for the artists which are performing. I thought it would be a good time to chill out, check out what's available and listen to some hot music," said Germain.
