Sewickley Civic Garden Council’s May Mart made its return after a pandemic hiatus

Sewickley Civic Garden Council’s May Mart welcomed hundreds of people to the borough after a three-year pandemic hiatus.

Wet weather did not dampen the spirits of participants and vendors at the May 13 event along Broad Street in Sewickley.

“We were all so pleased — that after not having May Mart since before covid — to see that people came out and supported it despite the rain and dampness,” SCGC president Martha Smith said. “The vendors were very happy with the crowd and everybody seemed to have a good time.”

There were about 50 vendors, including Steel City Salts, Hughes Farm & Apiary, Labyrinth Farm Candles, Miller’s Gourmet Foods, Merri Chef, Weister Lane Whimsies, Sewickley Confectionery and Sand Hill Berries.

Sewickley Public Library had a book sale with items focused on gardening and the outdoors. Tree Pittsburgh gave away trees. Sweetwater Center for the Arts showcased a variety of artwork.

“Sweetwater was thrilled to participate in this community event,” said executive director Christine Brondyke. “Our handcrafted items, created by Sweetwater’s teaching artists, were in high demand. We look forward to future collaboration with the Sewickley Civic Garden Council.”

Families visited the gardens tended to by the council, and children’s activities included plant-a-pot — young planters were given a pot and soil and selected a plant they liked. They also made a beaded decoration to poke into the pot.

May Mart committee member Terri Tunick said seeing everyone enjoy the day was her favorite part of the event.

“There were a lot of young families (and) we had a good turnout of people,” she said. “They were very supportive of the children’s activities. It just felt like being back to normal, seeing your neighbors and seeing new people. It was just a fun day. I think next year we’ll build from there.”

The Sewickley Civic Garden Council helps fund, plant and maintain the hanging baskets and Broad Street flowers each year.

Each SCGC member club funds, plants and maintains one of Sewickley Village’s gardens or public spaces, including Wolcott Park, Sewickley Post Office, Sewickley Public Library Patio, and Walnut Street Parklet.

Proceeds from the sales at May Mart help support those efforts.

More information about the council and how to support it is available at sewickleygardens.com.