Summer Tuesdays Kicks Off July 9 at Lowell Park in Downtown Stillwater

In just a few weeks, Summer Tuesdays will kick off its 11th season in downtown Stillwater.

Summer Tuesdays begins Tuesday, July 9 in Lowell Park.

The marketplace will be open from 5 to 8:30 p.m., and will feature more than 35 vendors.

The marketplace will offer clothing, hand-crafted art, jewelry and more from vendors such as, Plie Dance, Barbara Ann's Fudge Shop, Cotton Candy Connection, and Zaney Janey who will be doing her henna tattoos once again, and many more shops.

Local restaurants participating in the event include Leo's, Aristos, Chicago Dogs, Gluten­Free Mini Donuts and more.

People are encouraged to bring a blanket or folding chair and find a spot on the lawn to enjoy some great entertainment on the Summer Tuesdays stage. New to the event this year, ­ people may opt to win the newly offered “Boxed Seats,” which are four premiere seats in the prime spot for movie watching, have their picture taken and enjoy free popcorn and refreshments.

Back by popular demand, each week will be a photo contest to win a turn in the “Boxed Seats” by following both Summer Tuesdays and Stillwater Patch on Facebook.

People post their photos on Summer Tuesdays' Facebook page and then the public will vote for their favorite one. The photo with the most “likes” will win the seats that week. Stillwater Patch will also be there to take photos of people at Summer Tuesdays, and those photos may be entered as well by individuals.

The new theme will be announced each week on the stage of the Summer Tuesdays.

Musical performances are also scheduled to start at 6 p.m. each Tuesday night, kicking off with Mike in the Wilderness, an old-time string band. Other bands this season include: Thrift Store Sonata, Hounds of Finn, Les Izmoore, Moors & McCumber, Scottie Miller, Galactic Cowboy Orchestra.

The opening night movie is “The Lorax,” beginning at dusk and is shown on the screen each year by Johnny's T.V.

The list of movies include: “Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “Toy Story,”  “August Rush,” “Hugo,” “The Muppets (2011)” and “E.T.,” which will have a special treat for anyone arriving that night on a bicycle.

Soda, popcorn, water and frozen novelties will be available for purchase during the movie.

Summer Tuesdays continues to provide free, family-friendly fun thanks to the many local sponsors, supporters and volunteers.

Visit www.summertuesdays.com for more information about the event's sponsors, supporters and volunteers. People may also consider making a donation when the bucket is passed through the crowd.