The Norway Downtown Development Authority will end the Open-Air Market season on July 24, about a month earlier than originally planned. The last two events will feature several special vendors and activities. Danielson's Greenhouse and Floral of Norway owner Erica Land puts together a mini bouquet in the shop in preparation for market. Danielson’s will also offer henna tattoos at its booth Thursday. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

NORWAY — The Norway Downtown Development Authority has announced it will have to cut short the third summer season of its weekly Open-Air Market on Thursdays.

The decision comes after DDA event coordinator Gina Zanon had to resign recently due to medical reasons.

“The DDA will continue to host the market for two more weeks — July 17 and July 24,” Zanon said. “They currently don’t have a replacement for my position — unfortunately, the market will not go through Aug. 21 as originally planned.”

The final events, open from 5 to 7:30 p.m. those two Thursdays in the city parking lot next to Mike’s on Main in the 600 block of Main Street, will feature a couple new vendors and activities.

“I hope everyone comes out to enjoy the evening with us and checks out these amazing local vendors,” she said.

This week, Danielson’s Greenhouse and Floral of Norway will offer henna tattoos at its booth. Artist Arianna will have a variety of pre-drawn designs to choose from, with prices ranging from $5 to $15.

“She can do custom work for an additional fee,” Zanon said.

A fun addition this week is a vintage vendor.

In case of rain the market will be canceled. “Unfortunately they call for rain again this week,” she said.

“Christmas in July” will be celebrated at the final outing on Thursday, July 24.

Zanon noted they have a great lineup of vendors taking part.

A kid’s holiday craft activity that includes jingle bells is planned. Danielson’s will offer face painting for children.

In addition, the DDA will hand out M&M candy canes and market bags through the evening.

The DDA kicked off its first Open-Air Market of the season with the local group Moon Ticket and have brought them back for another performance.

The band plays a variety of music, including classic rock. “They were fun and really well received,” Zanon said.

Attendees can look forward to Millie’s Market bringing in some great food items, she said.

The mural on the side of the American Legion building on Main Street in Norway is currently in the works. Artist Jim Finlan of Escanaba began the project Monday. “He’s very talented — you can see many of his pieces in downtown Escanaba,” she said, adding American Legion members selected the artwork.

“Come down to see the new mural project, purchase your items at the market and then head to Music in the Park for the evening,” Zanon said.

Zanon thanked the DDA Board for the opportunity to be the city’s first event coordinator.

“I feel we have accomplished a lot during my time,” she said. “We finished Viking Square, awarded facade grants, and added to the Christmas in Norway event, senior banners, new flower planters and now the mural.”

She hopes someone takes over the position in the near future. “I would love to see more murals and facade grants awarded and the downtown historical tour project, which is about 90% completed,” Zanon said, adding, “Norway has so much potential.”

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Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772 ext. 85241 or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.