By Jen Rinaldi

What could be better than drawing folks out on a lovely Sunday afternoon to take part in a family friendly fall themed event? With the trees all ablaze in fall color, and fall-themed shopping opportunities, the stage was set for an experience not to be missed. The Merry Mountain Market hosted its very first Halloween Festival at the Arts Alliance of the White Mountains on October 26th, and it was an event to remember! As I walked around and asked folks how they had heard about the event, many guests said that they had never been to the Arts Alliance, and had never heard of the Merry Mountain Market. Some had seen the market’s advertising through the scarecrow contest or on social media, or from several local businesses. That the event brought unique visitors is certainly a win, win for both The Arts Alliance and The Market — showcasing hidden gems of the White Mountains. The Arts Alliance, with its many galleries open and inviting, and the market, providing local shopping and partnerships.

I was truly amazed at how many well-dressed spooks from our area haunted places, gathered to make the day special. Attendance tipped the scales, with over 180+ guests joining the celebration — many dressed in festive costumes that brought extra excitement to the day. Local businesses came out to lend a hand with the trunk or treat. Horne Jeep, Bagel Box, Churley Collision, the Chain Reaction Crew, and Apothecary Grand Mom, with the Chain Reaction Crew winning best decorated trunk. Outdoors SW had also run an ad that several visitors had also relied on. It just goes to show, when it comes to getting the word out about local events, it literally took a village!

The outdoor activities held the crowd’s attention, while the indoor vendors invited guests to relax and browse all the wonderful arts, crafts and baked goods on offer. Street Eats served their Jamaican menu to the delight of festival goers. Their mellow vibe added to the carnival-like atmosphere.

To drive customers to the market, Vice President Tina Butora created a scarecrow for Show Low’s Scarecrow contest. Entry #9, titled Seraph of Bone and Ash, made its debut on a cold and windy night, leaving Tina wondering if her seraph’s wings would carry it away. Her spine-tingling (ha, ha), skull-warping creation also invited viewers to join the Halloween celebration.

For those of you who are not familiar with Show Low’s Scarecrow Contest, scarecrows are lined up on the Bluff Trail walking path. Many local businesses and organizations take part, giving residents a tantalizing warmup to the holiday season. 

From White Mountain Blvd, people could see Tina’s offering as it twisted and appeared to float within its boundaries. She describes her creation as a biblically accurate seraphim with a woodland vibe. Tina’s Scarecrow won the contest! — a great omen for the market made by a talented lady.

Other highlights of the festival included a variety of Halloween-themed games that kept the energy high and spirits soaring. A boo-full crafts table allowed kids to take home a smiling fall-themed project. Selfie stations for family scrapbooks and face painting were also available to those not already in costume.

  Over twenty unique local artisans attended the market, which was bursting at the seams with vendors offering an impressive selection of items unique to the White Mountains. Visitors browsed both inside and out and were tempted by those who created handmade tinctures, artisanal soaps, beautiful glasswork, and seasonal crafts, all lovingly in the spirit of the mountains. The event made shopping locally more fun!

No Halloween festival would be complete without candy, and at this event every vendor delivered plenty for everyone to enjoy! Community Spirit was also in attendance – the atmosphere was buzzing with joy, laughter, and a sense of togetherness. Families, friends, and neighbors came together to celebrate the season, making memories and supporting local businesses in the process.

With such a successful turnout and positive feedback, the Merry Mountain Market looks forward to making the Halloween festival an annual tradition. The White Mountains community can’t wait for more spooky fun and creativity next year!

The Merry Mountain Market is open every Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

 Special events include a craft swap on November 23, Black Sunday on November 30th and a Market Christmas celebration on December 14th. The Market is located at The Arts Alliance, 251 Penrod Rd., Show Low, AZ. Hours are from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information, please contact them at www.merrymountianmarket@gmail.com or on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/merrymountainmarket