Sidewalk Festival brought people outdoors

KENT — Good weather turned the center of town into an outdoor venue for shopping bargains and fun for area residents and visitors from as far away as Wisconsin during the annual Sidewalk Festival last weekend. Chamber of Commerce members proudly pointed out that last year Yankee magazine named Kent the number one town in New England for its foliage, culture, shops, food and lodging. The Sidewalk Festival is one of the efforts by the chamber and by Kent businesses to show how well the town lives up to its rating.Hundreds of bargain shoppers, fun seekers and hungry eaters were seen promenading along the sidewalks on Route 7, coming from and entering the many stores and eating establishments. The streets were lined with motorcycles.Most merchants offered shopping values inside their stores as well as at sidewalk sales. There was a drawing for a summer shopping spree. Other events included an outdoor book sale, a farmers market, face painting for children, wine tastings, tarot card readings, live music and dance, restaurant specials and more. Free food samples were offered.Kent Car Cruise Night was held on July 30 featuring cars, trucks and hot rods.Among the music offerings was a concert by students and a faculty member from the Jazz Camp, sponsored by the Litchfield Jazz Festival, on the front porch of Richard J. Lindsey, Bookseller. Dancing in the Street took place for two hours on Saturday afternoon, July 30, at the Golden Falcon lot on Route 7. The first part was hip-hop dancing lessons which drew young people of all ages.

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