Witchy ways are returning with a nighttime Halloween-themed street fair in Vandergrift.
The Witching Hours Night Market will take over Grant Avenue on Saturday in the business district.
“This is an event you won’t forget,” said organizer and business owner Shannon Gourley of Vandergrift.
Grant Street will be closed to vehicle traffic as night falls.
The spooky outdoor event made such an impression on Lower Burrell resident Jamie Daly last year that she plans to attend again.
“I was excited last year to see another small community event being kicked off,” Daly said. “My family had decided it would be a great spooky season event.”
The Daly family wandered through an assortment of shops and stalls and said they had a great time.
“It was so much fun that, when I had the opportunity to join as a vendor, I did.” Daly said.
The gathering will kick off at 4 and continue until 11 p.m.
Most of the stores will remain open, and the event is suitable for all ages.
Attendees are encouraged to don their best witch attire or costume of choice and meander through more than 80 specialty vendors.
Food trucks will be available, and entertainment includes a DJ, tarot readers, fire spinners, ghost tours and street performers.
Vendors will offer items such as metaphysical supplies, jewelry, fall home decor, soaps, candles and more.
The festival, with a Victorian vibe, began in 2022 and was well-attended, said Gourley, owner of Honey&Heart Candle and Craft Co.
Gourley, along with other witch-loving women who also happen to own businesses in Vandergrift, established the event to shine a spotlight on Vandergrift.
Gourley said the costume contests were popular ;ast year. This year, attendees can participate in three contests: Best Witch, Most Creative and Best Couple.
Michelle Majeran Snyder of Pittsburgh’s Morningside neighborhood praised Vandergrift for rolling out the welcome mat.
“The friendly atmosphere is what draws you here. You leave anticipating the next event and being a part of the community,” Snyder said. “The events are fun for all ages, and there’s so much to do and eat.”
Children’s activities include a live fairy interacting with guests and face-mask making.
For a small fee, children can design their own witch hat and fairy wings at Full Circle Furniture & Gifts.
About a dozen food vendors are expected, offering coffee, ice cream, pudding shots, wine, kettle corn, gyros, and subs.
Three walking ghost tours are scheduled, and space is limited. Advance registration is required, and a sign-up sheet will be available at the 12 O’Clock Society booth.
Performance artist O’Ryan the O’Amazing — a stilt-walking, juggling clown — will roam Grant Avenue alongside local fire dancers, including Breezy Marie.
Live music will begin at 9:30 p.m.
“Last year was a huge success, and many people had never been to Vandergrift before,” Gourley said. “We plan to have this event year after year and continue to grow it and offer a unique event experience.”
