HOULTON, Maine — For more than 25 years, residents have flocked to Market Square in downtown Houlton for an evening of entertainment and great deals as part of the annual Midnight Madness celebration.
Patriotism is the theme of this year’s event, as the downtown is already decorated to perfection with its new, red-white-and-blue banners. Business owners are being encouraged to take the decorating to the next level and dress up their storefronts in American fashion.
“Everyone we have spoken to so far likes the theme choice for this year,” said Jane Torres, executive director for the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce. “
Vendors will begin setting up around noon on the day of July 3. The Chamber will start selling its strawberry shortcakes at 11 a.m. and continue throughout the day.
Many of those who participate in the town’s Community Market on Saturdays will be on hand selling their homemade goods. Midnight Madness has evolved over the years. Originally a sale-only event with bargains increasing in value as the evening wore on, today’s festivity has evolved into a street fair celebration with sidewalk vendors, music, car shows and food booths.
Local merchants are busily preparing for this event already and hoping for record sales. The atmosphere of the evening is always one of homecoming, capturing the excitement of the Fourth of July holiday and reunions. Not limited to just downtown merchants, many stores, including those on the North Road, will be open late, offering discounts and sales that increase in value as the night wears on.
Market Square will again be partially closed to vehicle traffic for the evening, allowing bargain hunters the opportunity to roam freely through the streets. Another popular attraction that is back this year is the car show/cruise-in. Torres said antique and classic cars will be on display by the Market Square Commons parking lot.
McGill’s Community Band takes center stage at 7 p.m. with a performance at the Monument Park Amphitheatre. The musical group “Teddy and the Boys,” will perform at 8:30 p.m. in Market Square and Tim “the Tune Man” Humphrey will once again be on-hand to entertain the masses with his popular musical van in Market Square. He will be drawing door prizes throughout the evening and features plenty of interactive children’s games.
Based on the success and positive comments received on a yearly basis, an evening of fireworks at the Riverfront Park will once again be held near the Meduxnekeag River/Gateway Crossing Bridge. This year’s show starts a bit later, with the first fireworks going off at about 9:45 p.m. Torres said half of the cost for the fireworks show was provided by First Wind.
Food vendors of all types, including a New York style hot dog vendor, will be offering tasty treats throughout the evening.
Torres said she was hopeful both downtown merchants, as well as those located along the North Road, will benefit economically from Midnight Madness.
“The important thing to remember is it’s all about buying local,” Torres said.
For more information, call the chamber at 532-4216.
