50th Annual Lemonade Concert and Art Fair Kicks Off Granite City Days 2023

(KNSI) — Thursday’s 50th annual Lemonade Concert and Art Fair kicks off the Granite City Days celebrations.

Christa Martin, Civic Engagement Director for St. Cloud State University, says the event started small but has grown by leaps and bounds in the last half century. “Back in the day, it started with a community member who wanted to put together an art show on our campus. So it was always led by a community member. And then, eventually, the university just took it on in our department of campus involvement. It has really evolved throughout the years. The amount of vendors has gone up. I believe in the early 2000s, it was almost up to 300 vendors. And then, since the pandemic, that has declined a little bit, but yes, we are back in full force with a large showing of art vendors. So we’re really excited to host our community here today.”

Bob Trisko is a 1969 SCSU graduate and central Minnesota native. He taught in the school district for 12 years and combined his love of math and art into crafting jewelry. Trisko has been a vendor at the event since its inception. “My work has evolved a lot. From lower end stuff, more to moderate price to extremely pricey pieces. I want them to own a piece of jewelry that looks like wearable sculpture. I’ve worked this area for so many years, and I’ve got such loyal support from my customers and referrals from my customers to other customers. And that’s how it made the whole show grow for me.”

Trisko says he loves meeting new people and seeing the familiar faces of those he grew up with, alumni and former students.

See the full slate of events by clicking here.

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