2022 Friday Fling is in full swing

PALMER — The 2022 Friday Fling weekly vendor market is officially underway.

Friday Fling is an outdoor marketplace that features an array of local vendors selling a variety of goods ranging from from farm-fresh produce to handmade gifts.

Jingle Jellies owner Judy Hunter has been a vendor at Friday Fling for several years. She said that she will be there every Friday and she always looks forward to connecting with the community in a fun and popular summer venue that’s cherished by many.

“It’s well known. It’s like, ‘It’s Friday, let’s go check out Friday Fling.’ So I always know there’s going to be customers,” Hunter said. “And I get to rub shoulders with cool vendors.”

The Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce oversees Friday Fling. Executive Director Ailis Vann said that the first month of the 2022 season has drawn a lot of visitors. She added that based on vendor feedback, last week was one of the busiest markets they’ve seen in years.

“Things are going really well. The turnout has been fantastic,” Vann said.

This year’s market features several new and returning vendors. Vann said they feature new vendors every year and it’s always exciting to see the latest endeavors of local entrepreneurs and the continued flow of business that flows through downtown Palmer. She said its a great jumping-off point for new small businesses or an effective way for established businesses to maintain and broaden their clientele.

“It’s so fun to see the variety,” Vann said. “There’s a lot of talent in this community It’s pretty awesome.”

There is live music at Friday Fling each week. Vann said they’re hosting two acts a day again after receiving a lot of positive feedback for expanding the lineup last year.

“It gives twice as many people to dip their toes into performing, or the chance for people to come out and see some of their favorite local bands,” Vann said.

Tundra Comics creator Chad Carpenter said that there’s been a Tundra booth at Friday Fling for over a decade. He said that he’s cutting back on the amount of venues he’s attending this year, but the Alaska State Fair and Friday Fling are his hometown staples.

“This is the one I really like. Being a Valley kid, this is the one I would logically be in,” Carpenter said. “It’s such a beautiful area, such a great vibe down here.”

Local shopper Breezy Johnson enjoys wandering through Friday Fling to shop for unique items that can’t be found in regular retail stores. More than that, she enjoys the friendly and social atmosphere.

“It’s a great place to see your community together,” Johnson said.

Friday Fling runs near the Palmer Museum of History and Art every week from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Aug. 12. For more information, visit palmerchamber.org/fridayfling.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com