Tropical paradise planned for this year’s event

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND — Fireworks over the Gateway Crossing Bridge were such a hit with the public last year, that the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce has decided to bring them back this year as well.
By Joseph Cyr
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — Palm trees, exotic flowers and grass skirts will be the preferred items of choice as the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce celebrates its annual Midnight Madness event Tuesday, July 3, as a prelude to the Fourth of July festivities.
    Marking its 25th anniversary, 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.
    “Midnight Madness is one of the more highly attended and popular events of the summer and this year should be no exception,” said Jane Torres, executive director for the Chamber. “The downtown vendors seem really excited about the theme we selected.”
QUITE A CROWD— Midnight Madness typically draws a large crowd to downtown Houlton.
    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 will be open late, offering discounts and sales that increase in value as the night wears on.
    More than 50 retail merchants participated in Midnight Madness last year, opening their doors with sales to the public. Each participating business is encouraged to decorate or dress-up based on the theme of the event. Whichever business captures the theme best will win awards.
    Market Square in downtown Houlton is partially closed to vehicle traffic for the evening, allowing bargain hunters to roam freely through the streets. Secondary events, such as a performance by McGill’s Community Band in Monument Park, street vendors and musical performances in Market Square have been added through the years.
TRY IT — Miriam Zuraik of the Vault hands out delicious samples of items found inside her downtown restaurant.
    Vendors from the popular Community Market, held Saturdays throughout the summer, will also be on-hand downtown throughout the afternoon and evening, showcasing locally crafted goods, Torres said.
    The evening kicks off at 6 p.m. at the Gentle Memorial Building with the Little Miss and Mr. Sparkler and the Little Miss and Mr. Firecracker Pageant. The Sparkler division is open to boys and girls 2 and under while the Firecracker division is for 3 and 4 year olds. Each child must be accompanied on stage by a parent or guardian. There will be a panel of three judges who will give up to 15 points per child in two categories of personality and patriotic appearance.
    McGill’s Community Band takes center stage at 7 p.m. with a performance at the Monument Park Amphitheatre.
    Another popular attraction that is back this year is the car show/cruise-in organized by John Miller. Torres said antique and classic cars will be on display by the Market Square Commons parking lot.
    Recent Houlton High School graduate Dustin Fitzpatrick will perform rock selections with a band of fellow musicians at the intersection of Main Street and Broadway from 4-7 p.m. and again at the conclusion of McGill’s Community Band. Tim “the Tune Man” Humphrey will once again entertain the masses with his popular musical van in Market Square from 6-8 p.m. He will be drawing door prizes throughout the event.
TUNE MAN — Tim Humphrey entertains the masses at last year’s event.
    Based on the success and positive comments received from last year’s event, an evening of fireworks at the Riverfront Park will be held near the Meduxnekeag River/Gateway Crossing Bridge at about 9:20 p.m. p.m.
    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.