MainStreet Dayton to host spring festival Saturday

Sunday, April 3, 2011

IF YOU GO• What: Mardi Gras• When: 3-8 p.m. SaturdayApril 9• Where: Downtown Dayton• Who: Participating merchants• Admission: Free• Information: Call Anna Tromanhauser at 423-775-9847 or go to www.MainStreetDayton.org.

DAYTON, Tenn.-MainStreet Dayton's second annual Mardi Gras downtown event Saturday will feature more entertainment and music than before, officials said.

A disc jockey from WDNT-AM, Rhea County's radio station, will provide blues and jazz music selections throughout the afternoon, said agency Executive Director Anna Tromanhauser.

Brad Putt, owner of Main Stage Music, said he'll have music demonstrations inside his store during the festivities.

This year's Mardi Gras also will celebrate the arts, Tromanhauser said. Several local authors have contacted her about setting up book displays along Market Street, she said, and she hopes others will, too.

Musicians also are welcome to play their instruments around the courthouse square, organizers said.

Artisans from the Dayton Art League will display their paintings and various works of art inside downtown locations for the Walking Tour of Artisans, a league representative said. And vendors offering an array of spicy Cajun and New Orleans-inspired foods will have booths along Market Street, Tromanhauser said.

Tromanhauser said she encourages everyone to dress in green, gold and purple - the traditional colors of Mardi Gras. Masks, beads and feather boas will be available for purchase, she said.

Richard deArk, owner of Noah Built deArk fashion jewelry, said he'll have a variety of festival-themed earrings for sale.

Kimberly McMillian is based in Rhea County. Contact her at kdj424@bellsouth.net.