Maize Days provides ample art and entertainment
MURPHY (September 13, 2022) Murphy Maize Days, set for Saturday, Sept. 24, begins at noon at Murphy Central Park, 550 North Murphy Road, and will conclude with the traditional fireworks display, beginning at 9:30 p.m.
“While many of our visitors come for the wide variety of food and drink choices, the array of amusement-style rides, and the incredibly distinctive shopping opportunities, we also have something for those who are into art,” says Ashley Hudson, special events coordinator for the City of Murphy.
A popular stop for many attendees are the large hay bales decorated by Photography by Misty, a company located in Plano (www.photographybymisty.com 214-235-3239 misty@photographybymisty.com). The company’s artists will paint and decorate large round hay bales in a number of cleverly designed and easily recognizable cartoon characters.
These displays are accessible for attendees to pose for one-of-a-kind photos. There is no charge for the photos shot with mobile phones.
Another location for memorable photos is the festival’s painted art panel. The area, appropriately named the Maize Days Photo Op Station, provides a picturesque backdrop for family photos, or the ubiquitous selfie!
For those with a desire to channel their artistic talent into a keepsake seasonal item, the Punkin’ Paintin’ booth, sponsored by the Oak Brook School, is the perfect outlet. Small pumpkins will be available for painting by kids of all ages. For a small fee, the take-home pumpkins can be painted into jack-o-lanterns or any other fall motif.
And, finally, for art lovers who like to pick and choose from the work of professional and amateur artists, there will be plenty to choose from at the Maize Days Market. Several artists, sculptors, and other creative vendors will have items for sale.
As for performance art, there is also lots to enjoy. From noon to 4 p.m., local entertainment will include a Jazzercise session, the Full Spectrum Hair Show, and the Chase Oaks Church Band.
The evening’s opening act at the amphitheater area will take the stage at 6:30 p.m. The Bon Jovi tribute band called Blaze of Glory will play for one hour. Then, from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Celebrating Queen will play favorites from the world-renowned British band Queen.
The event is free to attend, and ample parking is available at Tom Kimbrough stadium, a half-block north of the venue. Free shuttling to and from the parking area will be provided throughout the day and evening.
For a list of events, activities, food vendors, performing acts, and other details, follow Murphy Maize Days on Facebook or visit www.maizedays.com.