Ellijay Marketplace to open in Spring!
A place where people can come and experience the flavor and character of an authentic mountain community, Ellijay Marketplace is a grass roots business venture intended to give the Gilmer County economy a boost. The brain child of Paul Malham, the marketplace is making use of the old Ply Mart building near the railroad tracks on River Street.
The Marketplace is in the works to become a favorite destination spot that is fun, interesting and has multi-dimensional appeal. Local and regional residents are welcome to participate at various levels. Space will be available at an open air flea market as well as space to sell goods for profit and promote local arts and crafts. North Georgia residents are encouraged to display their craft or profession with hands-on demonstrations. Talents such as candle making, blacksmithing and bow-making will be featured. ***One Free Table for 1 Week-end in April if you register online*** Space is limited so register now so you don’t miss out!
Ellijay Marketplace will also feature music performances throughout the season drawing from local, regional and national talent. Local musicians will be scheduled for the weekends to give them exposure and a forum in which to sell their music. Those interested are invited to call 706.847.4531 or go to the website at www.ellijaymarketplace.com for more information. Musicians interested in performing are encouraged to participate and requested to send a demo of their music.
Concerts that feature regional and national musicians will be scheduled as part of the “Ellijay under the Stars” music series. The band Karisma is scheduled for the spring.
Other items the organizers are working on include a unique train ride from Ellijay toward Jasper, which they feel could be a fun thing for visitors to do when they get to Ellijay. They are also considering a horse and buggy ride or a tractor ride from an antique tractor, which would take visitors to downtown Ellijay and give them time to explore the shops and restaurants in that area.
The organizers have been met with tremendous support from the Chamber of Commerce, surrounding businesses and local residents. . They will be actively promoting the Marketplace in the major metropolitan areas of Atlanta, Chattanooga and beyond. They will be using traditional methods as well as putting a strong emphasis on social media to network and attract visitors.
Ellijay Marketplace is providing North Georgians a venue in which to sell goods and promote their crafts and talents. The intention is to express the best of the North Georgia culture as authentically as possible and, in the process, improve the overall well-being of the region and its citizens. People interested in participating are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity.
Go to the website at www.ellijaymarketplace.com or call 706.847.4531 to find more.