🌿A Princeton event you don’t want to miss

Hello, friends. I want to share a really special event with you.

The Artisan Market at Hornbaker Gardens, set for this Saturday, is gearing up for its 11th annual event from 10 AM to 4 PM. With over 40 artists participating, the market promises a day filled with creativity, entertainment, and local culinary delights. Situated in the beautiful surroundings of Hornbaker Gardens in Princeton, Illinois, the Artisan Market offers a unique blend of art, music, and food, creating a community event that draws in both locals and visitors alike.

The art market will feature a variety of mediums, from pottery and wood to photography and fiber arts, along with mixed media, painting, jewelry, glass, metal, leather, mosaic, and sculpture. This year’s lineup includes both returning and new artists, such as David Anderson’s nature photography, Marissa Burch’s ceramic pottery, and Kathy Carey’s hats and leather goods. Attendees can expect to see beautifully crafted pieces that range from functional to decorative, with something to suit every taste and style.

One of the highlights of the event will be the interactive, hands-on art experience, where visitors can contribute to the community mural designed by Sallee Zearing. Titled "Awakening," the mural consists of 100 tiles that attendees will paint, eventually coming together to form a vibrant mosaic. This collaborative project is a chance for everyone to leave their artistic mark on the community.

In addition to the art, live music will keep the atmosphere lively throughout the day. The music lineup features a variety of local talent, starting with Kevin Kramer at 10 AM, followed by Al & Jeannie Brown at 11 AM, Jeff Manfredini at noon, Emily Williams at 1 PM, Joey Figgiani at 2 PM, and Mr. Falcon closing out the day at 3 PM. These performances will provide the perfect backdrop to the art market, adding another layer of enjoyment to the day’s festivities.

Local food vendors will also be on-site, offering a range of options for lunch and snacks. Wild Ginger Bistro, Naiho’s Egg Rolls & More, and Philly Factory are among the featured food trucks, providing delicious fare for hungry attendees. For those with a sweet tooth, artisanal popsicles, pies, and baked goods will be available, along with Sisler’s ice cream and treats from local bakeries. The event will also feature wine from August Hill Winery and craft beer, making it a true celebration of local flavors.

The Artisan Market offers something for everyone, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a music lover, or just looking for a fun day out with family and friends. With free admission, it’s an accessible event that invites the entire community to come together to support local artists and enjoy a day of creativity and connection.

With its combination of high-quality art, live music, and local food, the Artisan Market at Hornbaker Gardens is a must-visit event in Princeton. Whether you’re shopping for unique handmade items or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of Hornbaker Gardens, the Artisan Market is sure to be a memorable experience for all who attend.

Get the full story from a recent “Living Local” TV interview with David Hornbaker here.

Hope to see you there!

—Justin Bullington