Final Old Village Market Day Of The Year Is Today

This is your last chance to visit Mentor's Old Village Market Days this year and likely the last time you will see it at ever.

The farmer’s market will go from 4 to 8 p.m. today and features locally grown produce, arts and crafts, food, and many other products for sale by dozens of vendors.

There will also be live music from the Hollywood Slim Band, balloon artists Flower Clown and Pepper Jack, face painting with Janie Walland, storytelling, caricature artist Tim Hosler, a watermelon-eating contest, cookie decorating and ceramic painting.

The Market Days are all free to attend. Visitors can check out the market and tour the park's grounds, including President James Garfield's home, for free.

Unfortunately, the market will likely have to find another host next year.

Due to federal permit issues, the national park can only allow art vendors that demonstrate carving, candle making and other trades from President Garfield's day, said Kathie Pohl, Mentor’s marketing and community relations director.

"Face painting, balloons and other kids activities would also not be permitted under the site’s policy," Pohl said to The News-Herald. "Not sure about live music. With all of these restrictions, it doesn’t leave much of a festival."

Representatives from the national historic site and the city of Mentor made it clear that the market is not moving because of any acrimony between them.