News Photo by Steve Schulwitz Claire Greeneisen puts the finishing touches on a horse she drew during a sidewalk-chalk drawing contest on Saturday at Harmony Weekend in Harrisville. The small city drew thousands of people to enjoy the large arts and craft show and other events over Labor Day Weekend.

HARRISVILLE — After being canceled last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Harmony Weekend Arts and Craft Show in Harrisville returned with full force.

Vendors from all over the state, sold everything from kettle corn to jewelry and knick knacks, set up under canopies and serviced customers wanting to make a purchase or ask a question.

Some people just walked through the maze of displays taking in the crowd and the smell of fresh food being served by several food vendors.

Rachel Jones, from Oscoda, said last summer wasn’t the same without the arts and craft show because it is one of her favorite events in the area. She said she and her mother Cynthia always visit Harrisville on Labor Day weekend to find items for their houses and yards.

“There are a lot of things here that are handmade that you would never find in a store,” Jones said. “My mom and I make a day of it and just shop a little and then grab a bite to eat.”

Tony Hein was looking at metal fire pokers used to maneuver logs campfires. He said every year he ends up finding items that are unique, and inexpensive. Hein said.

“There is some cool stuff and I always find a few things to take home with me,” he said. “I love the variety and the talent some of the people have to make this stuff is remarkable.”

Jane Cramer said today was the first time she has ever been to the Harmony Weekend. She said her family is camping at the Harrisville State Campground, and decided to check out what the event was all about.

“There is so much to take in, but it seems like there is something for everybody,” Cramer said.

“It is a little overwhelming and you feel like you’re walking in a maze because there are just so many displays.”

Mayor Jeff Gehring said having the people visiting for the craft show helps the local economy and last year, when it was canceled, there was a negative economic impact locally. He said Harrisville and all of the other communities benefit from events like Harmony Weekend and they help draw people to the area, and some may make return visits.

“It is big for the city and the outlying areas. Our goal is for people to see the area, enjoy it, gain an appreciation of it, and want to come back,” Gehring said. “We want them to come back and spend some time and a little money here and we welcome all of them with open arms.”

The vendors will be selling products until 4 p.m. Sunday, and then spend much of the evening and part of Sunday packing up and moving on.

Harmony Weekend is held annually on the Saturday and Sunday of Labor Day Weekend.