LocalFest is a celebration of all things locally made. The inaugural event, scheduled for Saturday, September 8, from 10 to 5, will take place at the historic Shirt Factory at the corner of Lawrence and Cooper Streets in Glens Falls. The building was once home to the McMullen-Leavens Company, one of the nation’s greatest shirt and dress manufacturers. Today the building continues this tradition of artistry and excellence by providing a home to more than 70 artists and artisans, shops and creative and healing services.
Glens Falls is truly a unique city in that it has a strong history of manufacturing that continues to contribute to and shape the community. The current national trend of shopping locally is embodied by communities like Glens which not only features many independent businesses but also boasts a number of manufacturers who create value right here in the City, just as the McMullen-Leavens Company did from 1902 to 1976.
In addition to an open house showcasing the rich offerings of the Shirt Factory’s many tenants for shoppers and visitors alike, LocalFest features:
• A presentation on the history of manufacturing in Glens Falls by the Chapman Historical Museum
• A full day of homegrown live music outside on the lawn
• Glens Falls manufacturers exhibiting their wares and explaining their manufacturing process
• Local writers offering readings and book signings of copies of their works for sale
• Guest artists and artisans
• Food vendors and restauranteurs from the local area
• Local arts organizations offering children’s activities
• Non-profit organizations with educational information
• LocalFest’s opening features local dignitaries, followed by the National Anthem
LocalFest seeks sponsors who are locally-minded and interested in sharing their local commitment with the community. We will be promoting the event on radio and TV stations, and on Facebook and Twitter as well as our website and mailing list. Our many tenants will also be promoting the event to their fan bases and on their Facebook Pages. Our promotional materials are to include banners hung at the Shirt Factory, flyers and postcards placed around town and a digital image that we will circulate via the web and internet-related means of promotion.
To be a part of LocalFest, call 907-4478, email shirtfactorygf@gmail.com, or www.shirtfactorygf.com.