Friday Fling returns

Friday Fling is back in full swing Friday, May 12.

Friday Fling is an annual outdoor marketplace located in downtown Palmer near the library and museum. Each year, it features an array of local vendors selling a variety of goods ranging from farm-fresh produce to handmade gifts.

"We're looking forward to kicking things off this week," Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ailis Vann said.

Over 100 vendors have signed up to participate in Friday Fling over the course of the season, according to Vann. She said that about 60 vendors on average will be available at the market each week.

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 sells out almost immediately every year which is a great sign for the economy," Vann said.

There will be two sets of live performances by local musicians each week during Friday Fling. Vann credited Josh Fryfogle for coordinating the artists each year. She said the live music has become ingrained with the overall experience of the weekly marketplace, and it's served as a helpful platform for local musicians.

"People love having music there," Vann said.

The Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce has overseen Friday Fling for several years and the market itself has been around for over two decades. Vann said their goal is to maintain this cherished community staple for years to come.

"Our organization is a nonprofit, and we want to reinvest in the community," Vann said.

Friday Fling runs every week of the summer through Aug. 11.

For more information, visit palmerchamber.org/fridayfling.

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