RUTHERFORD — Thousands of residents came together to briefly forget about Hurricane Irene on Monday during what organizers call one of the largest antique and crafts fairs in the Tri-state area.
“This is an opportunity to forget about it,” said Csilla Greiner, 23, of the 36th annual Rutherford Labor Day Street Fair.
Attendee Ryann Russo, 31, said the fair brought much-needed camaraderie in light of the recent rain storm and with the upcoming 10-year anniversary of Sept. 11.
Irene flooded the homes of many residents living along the Passaic River and other parts of town more than a week ago.
Many residents were temporarily displaced and cleanup efforts continue. Donations were collected for flood victims during the fair, which was hosted by the Rutherford Downtown Partnership.
Organizers expected roughly 45,000 attendees throughout the day. By early afternoon, thousands filled the downtown area along Park Avenue, browsing crafts and eating a wide selection of food.
Yvonne Hasset, owner of Little Treasures in downtown Rutherford, promoted her gift shop and encouraged spectators to visit other booths between a karaoke selection of “God Bless the Child” by Billie Holiday.
“The Holy spirit inspires me,” said the former singer before continuing her hours-long performance with Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me. “It’s a tough economy, hopefully the businesses here can attract customers.”
Organizer Robin Reenstra-Bryant said the festival is a tradition, drawing people from across the Northeast. More than 250 vendors participated included those selling purses, jewelry, picture frames, scents and action figures.
Local politicians also kicked off their campaigns at the event. Labor Day is the unofficial start of campaign season.
The festival, on Park Avenue between Ames Avenue and Lincoln Park, signifies the beginning of fall and is a boon for the business community, Bryant said.
“Anytime you can draw 40,000 people downtown, it helps businesses,” she said.
RDP Board member Sophia Vazac said one attraction is having the same vendors each year and showcasing the vibrant downtown.
Pete Greenhalgh, 29, said he expected more people, but found entertainment in the Sean Duffy Bagpipe Band when they performed “Caisson Song,” also known as the Army theme song. He also said he had a tasteful Cuban sandwich.
Other bands were String Theory, The Rum Runners with Ashley Pettet and the Kootz Band.
Susanne Miguel brought her two daughters and three nephews to cap off a warm and wet summer.
“I’m taking the kids out for one last hoorah before school starts,” she said.
Holding a steak gyro, she too, raved about the food, promising to save room for a Polish pierogi.
Vendor Yona Amsalem, owner of Yona’s Gourmet Delights, offered vegetarian quiches, appetizers and desserts such as Oreo, carrot and strawberry shortcake.
She said staying busy and meeting new people is why she chose to come back for a second year.
E-mail: hampton@northjersey.com
