WLOX.com - The News for South MississippiDowntown Ocean Springs promotes overlooked section

Some Ocean Springs merchants want to bring attention to what they said is an often overlooked section of downtown. Business owners said the Third Saturday Arts and Crafts market is modeled after what's being done in places like Bay St. Louis and Fairhope, AL.

Wisconsin snowbirds Elaine Kreger and her husband said they were delighted to stroll the new Arts and Crafts Market in Downtown Ocean Springs.

"They have a lot of jewelry which I really like, a lot of art and a lot of beautiful prints," said Elaine Kreger.

Organizers said every third Saturday the street festival will take place in one lane of Washington Avenue from Government Street south to Porter Avenue. The goal is for foot traffic at the north end of downtown to keep straight on Washington and check out businesses there.

"We have the fresh market which is really great that they have. That's every Saturday of every month," said Mark Lafontaine, business owner. "We see a lot of people that come down. But with a lot of new development that's on Government, it turns, or they go back. We have businesses that are further down."

Lafontaine said, "It's to bring people further down to this area and to have this upcoming entertainment district that is going to be new for Ocean Springs. We want to have the general public, especially the tourists and trawlers that we see, to come down further into the city."

Plans are underway to expand Third Saturday with more booths and entertainment. Business owners believe if people can count on a great family event once a month, they'll be more likely to make the trip.

"The biggest impact that I hope is not only the coast residents but also tourists that are in Alabama and New Orleans, Slidell, as far north as the Hattiesburg and Jackson area start to rely on something that is fun," said Lafontaine. "Just to get out of the house on a Saturday, third Saturday, to see what's going on. See the art work. See the crafts. See the entertainment. Listen to some good music. Go eat our great restaurants."

 If you are interested in setting up a booth or would just like more information call 228-875 8407.

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