Farewell to this year's Downtown Summer Market

FORT MADISON - The Downtown Summer Market was hopping with small businesses and families downtown on Thursday hosted by organizer Darla Farrell.
This year's event is just a one-day market to kick off the summer. 
Stopping by each business, you are greeted with a smile and unique creations by local artists. Chuck Burns from Chuck's Energy Vortex was one of the friendly business owners at the market. He and his wife started the crystal shop together. They import rare gems from all over the world, and supply other shops in the Tri-State area.

Another friendly smile was from Heather Trimble from The Baking Bunny, who sells the fudgiest, "melt in your mouth" brownies in the area, and she works events like birthday parties, weddings, and other special occasions. 
Chris Smith from Only Ones Earrings sells one of a kind handcrafted jewelry made from aesthetically curated materials like gems, resin, and beads.
"Downtown Summer Market for the year is coming to a close. This was our first and only market for 2026. Look for 2027. We will be adding more markets. It was just time to regroup. Thank you, everyone," Farrell expressed to the community of Fort Madison and the small business who took part in her market.