Members of the Norman Downtowners Association are convinced residents will enjoy their Saturday afternoon more if they take it to the street--literally. That's why they have made strolling historic downtown streets for fun and education the main aim of the second-annual Feet on Main Street festival.

Nancy McClellan, member of Norman Downtowners Association, said the festival, scheduled to start at 10 a.m., aims to lure residents downtown so they can enjoy the recently renovated shops on Main Street.

"There's a good variety downtown, and most of the businesses are independently owned," she said. "There were a lot of renovations done last year, and we want people to get reacquainted with downtown."

But patrons can do more than walk. The festivities will also include demonstrations in painting and ceramics, hands-on crafts and open exhibitions of art and sculpture from local galleries.

After much walking, weary soles can find a variety of replenishment from local food vendors including gourmet coffees and chocolates, smoothies, bread bowls filled with soup, New York-style pizza and barbecue.

Additionally, several stores on Main Street are serving up bargain specials in honor of the festival.

McClellan added that she knows a festival isn't a real celebration unless there's music--which is why she booked three local bands to perform on Legacy Trail.

Son del Barrio, a local Salsa band, is set to kick off the live music medley with their Latin beats.

"The most important thing for us is that the people dance and just enjoy themselves," Robert Ruiz, owner of Enye Music, who represents the band said. "It gives the band a lot of energy when the audience gets involved."

He said he thinks the festival is more than a fun afternoon filled with music because it benefits the community by promoting discussion among residents and local merchants.

"It's so important to have a connected community with friendly dialogue because without it, not a lot gets done," he said.

Talk of the Town, a local Glen Miller-style big band, will be next to take the stage. Joe Windes, founding member of the band, said he hopes his band can entertain both old and young alike.

"The older generations really like our music because it's what they grew up with," Windes said. "I hope the younger generations grow to like it. We're definitely bridging many generation gaps."
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