First Flea in the Park

Providing something for everyone at Blowing Springs.

The first Flea in the Park event filled Blowing Springs, with cars parked throughout the RV park and attendees eager to check out the goods for sale.

POA recreation director Joan Glubzyncki said there were a variety of vendors, including artists and crafters of several stripes, as well as food sellers.

She estimated 500 people showed up, which she said is great — particularly for a first-time event.

“We’re just really happy,” she said.

The goal, she said, was to provide something for everyone. In addition to the vendors, she said, there was a pumpkin painting station — which also collected money for a coat drive — live music and a vintage vehicle display, which included a handful of cars as well as a classic camper.

This time around, she said, the event was designed to be relatively small and experimental. After this success, she said, the Flea in the Park is expected to become an annual event.

Wilson Scott Jr. said he came in part to sell his work but also to represent the Bella Vista Woodcarvers Club. He had a variety of wooden art on display and shared his table with fellow woodcarver John Brach.

Scott’s been carving wood for four years, he said, something he never did prior to moving to Bella Vista.

He’d like to see more woodcarvers selling their wares if there’s another event like this, he said. He can see art is selling, he said, and this is a great chance to represent the talent in Bella Vista.

“I love it, I think it was a good idea,” he said. “I’m telling you I think this is going to be a success.”

In addition to sales, he said, he had a lot of people ask about placing custom orders. He distributed plenty of business cards.

Bella Vista resident Laura Singleton showed up with her friend, Sher Barrs, to get in some shopping.

Barrs said she was glad to see a strong turnout and good weather.

Singleton left with a bag of lotus pods and Christmas ornaments, though she said she was still considering a shawl as well.

“I hope they do it again next year,” she said.

Keith Bryant/The Weekly Vista The first Flea in the Park drew a variety of vendors and guests to Blowing Springs Pavilion. POA recreation director Joan Glubzyncki said she believed more than 500 people showed up.

Keith Bryant/The Weekly Vista Dr. NOLA & The Soul Shakers, a Rogers-based, New Orleans-influenced band, played in Blowing Springs Pavilion during the Flea in the Park.

Keith Bryant/The Weekly Vista John Brach (left, background), sits and eats lunch with fellow woodcarver Wilson Scott Jr. during the Flea in the Park.

Keith Bryant/The Weekly Vista Laura Christeson, 9, left, helps Elia Tellez, 10, paint a pumpkin during the first Flea in the Park.