YORK, Pa. — On Thursday, dozens of York County businesses set up tables across WellSpan Park as they kicked off the 2024 Makers Spirit Event.
The event acts as a celebration of all things crafted by local businesses in the county.
“This is our way of showcasing all these authentic makers who call York County their home," said Melissa Beaverson with Explore York.
Throughout the weekend, people will have a chance to see how their favorite York County products are made.
“[We have] behind-the-scenes tours, educational events, arts and crafts, make-and-take events, food collaboration," said Beaverson. "It really is a way to culminate and showcase all of our makers.”
According to Beaverson, around 35 businesses across York County are participating in this year's Makers Spirit Event. Among them is York Fresh Food Farms, a nonprofit that grows fresh produce for people living in the City of York.
Matthew Hartman said the Makers Spirit Event allows the market to branch out to more people.
“It’s a vacant lot that we grow fresh produce on, and people don’t know we’re there," said Hartman. "So we want to promote what we are; we are here to feed the community healthy, fresh foods.”
People will be able to download a free Makers Spirit app, which acts as a passport to explore all the participating local businesses and cash in on free prizes.
“It’s just a way for people to learn new things about what businesses have to offer in the county," said Beaverson.
The Makers Spirit Event runs from Thursday through Saturday, June 22. A full list of participating businesses and events throughout the weekend can be found on the Explore York website.