Downtown Watertown will come alive on Saturday, August 8, as more than 180 vendors, live entertainment, family activities, and local businesses come together for The BIG Pop-Up Vendor & Street Fair. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., spanning more than 13 blocks throughout downtown.
The event is a collaborative effort between Watertown Tourism, the Watertown Main Street Program, and the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce, whose shared goal is to create an unforgettable community experience while showcasing downtown Watertown and supporting local businesses.
The BIG Pop-Up was created to help maintain strong visitor traffic during what is traditionally one of Watertown's busiest tourism weekends, serve as a placeholder for Watertown Riverfest in 2027, and provide an economic boost to local businesses by encouraging residents and visitors alike to spend the day exploring the city.
Visitors will discover nearly 200 vendor booths featuring handmade goods, boutiques, food, and unique products, along with a full lineup of activities and entertainment. Attractions include a 20-foot rock climbing wall, a nine-hole mini golf course, live acoustic music, a DJ, dance classes, disc golf, static displays, and a cream puff eating contest featuring youth, adult, and local celebrity divisions. Additional activities and demonstrations will be taking place throughout the day, offering something for every age and interest.
Main Street's brick-and-mortar retailers and restaurants will also be joining the celebration, with many businesses planning exclusive specials, promotions, demonstrations, and sidewalk activities to complement the festivities.
To make attending as convenient as possible, organizers have arranged free shuttle service throughout the day from Walmart and Riverside Middle School, allowing guests to avoid downtown parking concerns and easily access the event.
"We really pulled out all the stops to fill over 13 blocks with shopping and activities," said Tourism Director Robin Kaufmann. "I'm all about memory-making, and I truly believe this event is going to hit that mark."
The event is part of a weekend celebrating everything Watertown has to offer. Marketing efforts have promoted not only the BIG Pop-Up, but also Rainbow Valley Rides at Riverside Park, running Thursday through Sunday, August 6-9, and Watertown AutoFest at the Watertown Municipal Airport on Sunday, August 9.
"The culmination of the three events is unique and exciting," said Kaufmann. "There's something for everyone in the city, and my hope is guests will attend all three."
Linden Peacy, Executive Director of the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce, said the community's response has been overwhelming. "The Big Pop-Up has been incredible to plan, and it's been even more exciting to see so many local businesses come together to create something special for our community. This is going to be a fun event for all ages, so be sure to bring the whole family and check out the schedule of events so you don't miss a thing!"
A complete schedule of events, shuttle information, and additional weekend activities can be found by visiting watertownchamber.com.