Carrie Gordon, a vendor selling handmade pots and planters for succulents, said this year was her first coming to the Sesqui Artisans’ Market.

“I heard about this market from another vendor I’m friends with,” Gordon said. “I love state parks, and it’s beautiful here. That’s why I decided to come this year.”

Sesquicentennial State Park in Richland County held the market to attract anyone interested in shopping, food trucks and entertainment amid the park’s pines.

Various vendors – some of them first-timers – were scattered throughout the park for the Nov. 9 event.

The market even had a local band perform for the attendees while they shopped.

“Our whole band does a concert series throughout the park,” said Kelley Gregory, a lead singer for The Runout band. “But this is our first time playing for the Artisans’ Market.”

Locals are fans of its location and setting, even though this is only the second year the park has held the event.

“It’s a very easy outing, especially when you have a toddler,” said Lacey Hinson, who was there with her 2-year-old daughter, Collins. “There’s even a playground close by.”

Her friend Kim Humphreys said though the market isn’t yet well known, word has definitely gotten out about it since last year.

“You can tell by the traffic coming into it this year that more people have heard about it and are interested in coming out,” Humphreys said.

The calm, nature vibe seemed to put attendees at ease. The day was full of laughter, artsy purchases and delicious indulgence.

“We wish they did this more than once a year,” Humphreys said.