Art lovers, shoppers flock to Patagonia fest

Locals found themselves navigating the back streets and alleys of Patagonia over Columbus Day weekend, as thousands of visitors overran the small town’s main throughways and park - much to the delight of merchants and art vendors.

While only 1,000 people attended the event on Friday afternoon, the crowds quickly swelled. “We had the best Saturday we’ve ever had,” said Pete Workizer, who along with his wife Kazz helped organize the 21st Annual Patagonia Fall Festival. Workizer said that between 9,500 and 9,800 people attended the second full day of the two-and-a-half day event.

“This year Mother Nature has been really kind to us,” he added, referring to the foul weather that kept away visitors last year.

By Sunday a handful of lucky and hard working vendors were proudly displaying the blue ribbons awarded to them by judges. “Best in Show” went to a glass art exhibit dubbed “Judy’s Fusion.” “Enchanted Lavender” got “Best Booth” for its bath, home and artistic lavender potions. The vegetarian food vendor “Sparky’s Cantina/Whisper’s Sanctuary” took “Best Food Booth” and, finally, wood-turner Lynne Yamaguchi received the jury award for craftsmanship.

‘Wow!’

“She’s got the kind of product where you walk in the booth and just go, ‘Wow!’” said Pete Workizer, referring to Yamaguchi’s turned wood vessels. “It begs to be picked up and touched, yet it’s all functional.”