Festival in the Pines will have free shuttle

Ran on Thursday, August 23, 2007

Festival in the Pines will have free shuttle

By Keighla Schmidt
Leader-Telegram staff

Festival in the Pines turns 25 this weekend, and about 250 arts and crafts vendors, 14 food vendors, and 15,000 to 20,000 visitors are expected in Carson Park on Saturday and Sunday.

"Festival in the Pines is popular because it's so family-oriented," said festival coordinator Dan Ropa. "We cater to both shoppers and young families."

The festival draws attendees from surrounding states and has and estimated economic impact of $300,000.

Vendors offer a variety of goods, including one-of-a-kind clothing, furniture and other hand-crafted items.

Family fun is fostered through returning attractions such as a free petting zoo, inflatable rides, a trout fishing pond and games. A new attraction is pony rides.

Live entertainment from area and professional performers are scattered throughout the two-day event.

Local restaurant owners who wanted to have their own version of "The Taste of Eau Claire" started the event 25 years ago. Some local food establishments will have booths at the festival, serving fest staples such as corn dogs, cheese curds, mini doughnuts and barbecue pork sandwiches.

Parking in the park will be limited.

Ropa encourages festgoers to use the free shuttle from one of the four locations.