The longest line the Bank of America ATM sees all year, thousands of Instagram posts of girls holding chocolate covered cheesecake pops (#streetfair) and overpriced wolf t-shirts.
That’s right — it’s time for the ASUO Spring Street Faire.
The Street Faire is a big part of University of Oregon tradition and provides students with opportunities to become exposed to local vendors. With 29 food and 52 craft vendors, along with five UO programs and non-profits, the spring Street Faire is sure to satisfy any craving. Be sure to check out these craft booths as you stroll down 13th Avenue on May 7, 8 and 9.
Stop by this Pacific Northwest inspired screen print wear. IAMDARRAS features crewneck sweatshirts, tees and tanks, all sporting various hip images.
Artist Kevin Rowan Darras started the company seven years ago after selling his shirts at Portland’s Saturday Market for some extra money. To his surprise, they were wildly popular. Today, IAMDARRAS regularly sets up at Portland Saturday Market, Seattle’s Pike Place Market and a slew of other events. Look for the booth at Sasquatch Music Festival, Paradiso, Bumbershoot and Dave Matthews Band Caravan.
“The atmosphere of the kids is really dope,” Darras said. “It’s a nice, casual environment.”
Darras sold more than he expected at last fall’s street faire and is excited to return this week.
“I’ve got a good sum of what the fresh apparel is going to be. I know what’s up with the cuts (of the shirts) and mixed with my designs. It creates fresh gear,” Darras said.
Like cute animals on t-shirts? Head over the the pun-titled Artimals booth. This week will mark painter Noelle Dass’ fourth time bringing her lovable animal paintings and t-shirts to the Street Faire. And this year, Dass is providing a major t-shirt clearance sale.
“I’m trying to get rid of the shirts, so I can focus more on painting,” Dass said. “I like to give deals to students because we were all students once.”
This may be your last chance to snag one of Dass’ shirts, and just in time for Mother’s Day. The Artimals booth will also feature Dass’ paintings on bamboo blocks.
Durian & The Lyon
Although it sounds like the name of an indie-pop band, Durian & The Lyon is actually a haberdashery, featuring the best (and only) spot to check out fun and fancy bow ties handcrafted with an array of vintage fabrics. Durian & The Lyon has become a Street Faire staple as this week will mark its fifth time.
Kelly Durian started this company in 2011 after being inspired by several crafting books, as well as her involvement with Eugene’s Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts. Her whimsical bow ties evoke the days of Pee Wee Herman, in the best way. Ever wanted a rainbow bow tie? Now’s your chance.
“UO students are generally pretty jazzed about my bowties and it’s super fun to hang out on campus for a few days and feel the enthusiasm,” Durian said. “Having been doing this for a few years now, I’ve had repeat customers who come to each faire, I’ve seen some students graduate (in my bowties!) and I feel like a part of the community.”
This year, Durian has some new seersucker bowties in fun spring colors, as well as a collection of hair bows, both mini and extra large. Durian also said she will have a small selection of vintage clothes and hats.