Manasquan Spring Fair Celebrates Season

The Third Annual Manasquan Spring Craft Fair was held on Saturday, April 30, at Squan Plaza, and despite an overcast start and temperatures only in the 50s, it “blossomed” in the early afternoon sun, drawing more than 300 adults and children.

The fair is sponsored by the Manasquan Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s a fun and exciting day for the whole family,” said Chamber Executive Director Laura Gilardini.

Her feeling was seconded by Charles Robertson of Manasquan, who said, “It’s wonderful ­– it brings people into town – they get to see our great town.”

Vendors numbered more than 60 and offered only hand-made items such as baked goods, jewelry, stained glass, artwork, beaded items, copper weathervanes, woodcrafts and doll’s clothing.

Barbara Rettberg, owner of Gems by the Sea, Point Pleasant Beach, was encouraged by the turnout.

“This is my second year here, and I hope this year is as successful as it was last year,” she said.

Several visitors ambled up and down the plaza, among tented booths offering items such as colorful hand-embroidered key chains, sippy mugs and travel mugs by 2 Friends, Toms River. 

“I’ve been coming here three years – as long as the weather holds out, we should have a good day,” commented Karin Killian of 2 Friends.

Crafters weren’t just locals, but came from as far away as Coopersburg, Pa., and Ringwood, as did Phil Jonker, owner of Rollin Thunder Home Accents. 

“I’ve been coming here since it started – we do real well in this area because no one else has what we have; the weathervanes are Shore-related,” he said.

The craft fair wasn’t just for grown-ups, and had plenty of free child-friendly activities such as a trampoline castle, face painting, sand art, balloon sculptures by Antsy the Clown, and music by Ed Austin.

“She came here last year, too, so she said, ‘We have to go; we have to go on the trampoline first!' ” said Jessie Tufts, Point Pleasant, as her daughter happily bounced in the castle of balls.

Mother Lori Cohen pushed a stroller holding her daughter, Maggie, who showed a huge yawn after a fun-filled but exhausting afternoon. 

“We moved down here two years ago – we’re on our second year at the fair.  It’s cute – it’s a beautiful day – we love the arts and crafts,” said Mary Beth Kolber of Point Pleasant Beach. “It’s kid friendly and well-planned, well set up.  What’s really nice about this event is it’s set up for all ages.”

Jean Hennon, Wall, also praised the affair, stating “I come every year.  I always think it’s a nice event – everyone’s friendly.”

The spring fair wasn’t the only thing to look forward to in downtown Manasquan; the 10th Annual Manasquan Fall Fair will be held Sept. 24 in Squan Plaza, and feature 80 vendors.

For more information, call Manasquan Chamber of Commerce at 732-223-8303, or visit www.manasquanchamber.org.