It’s spring. The sun is out, the school year is almost over, and many students may be more eager to lie in the grass than to sit in the classroom.
And beginning today, they will have one more welcome distraction.
Kicking off today and running through Friday, this year’s ASUO spring street fair will be just that, with temptations ranging from professional massages to tasty cuisine.
A tradition at the University for more than 20 years, the street fair is put on by the ASUO every fall and spring term, ASUO Marketing Director ThuVan Hoang said.
As in the past, the line-up for this spring’s fair is nearly full, ASUO Programs Director Tambi Boyle said. With 91 vendors signed up, she said, there is only spot left.
Boyle said this year’s fair features an eclectic group of vendors. Some of the more unusual services being offered include massages by three businesses — Rejuvenation Mind and Spa, Pacific Body Works, and Castle Essential Oils — as well as tarot card readings at Intuitive Readings with Irene.
In addition, Huang said, there will be many crafts, clothing and jewelry booths. Many of these are run by local businesses, such as the student-run clothing business Syntax.
The food booths, perennially popular among students, will also offer a variety to choose from, Huang said. This year’s fair will feature traditional booths, such as the Bangkok Grill, as well as several new vendors, such as Ben & Jerry’s.
Ben & Jerry’s employee Jason Caputo said because the company has never been involved with the street fair before, he’s not sure what to expect. But, he said, he hopes to sell between 200 and 300 ice cream bars each day.
As part of the street fair celebration, the ASUO will also be sponsoring several musical acts in the EMU Amphitheater. The acts will take the stage alongside ongoing presentations held as part of International Week.
Over the years, the street fair has become an event that everyone on campus looks forward to, Huang said.
ASUO president Jay Breslow agreed.
“I love the street fair,” he said.