“Mother Nature tried to shut us down but she did not succeed,” said Lisa Polk, owner of The Thing Is Boutique and lead organizer of the Mason Arts & Wine Festival held April 5 around the square.
In fact, merchants reported that sales were better than in years where the sidewalks were packed with visitors because people took the time to stop and chat rather than being carried along by the tide.
Wineries like Murphy Creek Cellars and Parr had standing room only in their cozy storefronts and retail shops reported strong sales. The 2025 Festival featured wine tasting by local vintners, crafts, fine art, food and more.
There were 11 wine vendors, 40 artists and artisans as well as interactive booths to create memories. The Mason Chamber Music Festival kicked off Friday night with a spectacular concert in the Mason County Court house main courtroom where the balcony and floor levels were packed with eager listeners.
On Saturday afternoon, locals and visitors to the square enjoyed popcorn and pop music at the Odeon, including favorites by the Beatles, Beyoncé and Cold Play, among others.
Sunday, the First United Methodist Church hosted the Artisan String Quartet for a closing performance of a variety of familiar short pieces that map back to movies, TV and musical theater.
Groupies who followed the entire schedule and drop-ins who made only one performance were delighted and inspired.
