Charles City downtown’s Harvest Moon Festival enjoys a successful start

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

Downtown Charles City celebrated the start of fall as more than a dozen businesses participated in the first Harvest Moon Festival on Thursday, Sept. 28.

“It was a smashing success,” said Darci Tracey of Prologue Books & Wine.

Wanting a new shopping event for the fall season, Tracey coordinated with other local business owners to stay open late for the evening and invite shoppers to enjoy a night of autumn-themed sights and sales.

“It’s been a really great night,” said Tami Vetter of Rustic Corner. “Lots of people from out-of-town that are first time shoppers.”

The Rustic Corner was decked out in autumn décor to usher in the season and display its fall selection. With wine samples, a fortune teller and a wall-hanging class, there was plenty to do and see for the evening event.

On the other end of Main Street, Tellurian Brewing had offerings of its own to put people into the seasonal spirit. Otto’s Oasis was on site to sell gourds and visitors could enjoy a sample of wine or try out the brewery’s trial batch of flavored ciders while waiting on their meal from the food truck.

In between, businesses from Cardigan to JJ’s Toys stayed open through the evening to draw in the crowds. The Charles City Arts Center, Dean Jewelers, Charles City Electronics, The McCoy Smoothies and Aromas Coffee all had their own sales, snacks and seasonal showcases. Participating shops enjoyed the opportunity to show off what they offer to both out-of-town visitors and local shoppers.

“I think it’s been good,” said Julie Bock of Charles City Electronics. “It’s a beautiful night to be out and about.”

“We’ve had a very busy night,” said Rhonda Dana of Darbe & Co. Boutique. “It’s been a lot of fun.”

Along with the sales and samplings, the Floyd County Museum brought out an antique tractor for people to use for photo ops and a Chamber of Commerce grant funded a performance from acoustic guitarist Kris Karr, who played through the evening.

With comfortable weather and a good turnout of people, Tracey said she was happy to see that the inaugural event received such a positive reception and she is looking forward to planning for more next year.

“I’m already brainstorming about what we can do,” said Tracey.