Vendors spots are filling up fast

Organizers of the Oliver Hardy Festival in Harlem are gearing up for the 19th annual festival and are taking applications for vendors and parade participants.

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Denise Carter, an organizer of the event, said the festival's two parades wind through downtown Harlem and average well more than 100 participating entries.

"We've done it every single year," Carter said of the parades.

The festival's organizing committee is looking for groups to be in the parade to include school, civic and dance groups, scout troops, school marching bands and anyone who'd like to show off their classic car, truck or tractor, Carter said.

The deadline for parade entries is Oct. 1, Carter said. Applications are available on the city's Web site, www.harlemga.org.

The 9 a.m. children's parade, followed by the larger parade, will start the festival, which attracts 30,000 to 35,000 people to the city.

The festival, scheduled for Oct. 6, is held in Harlem because it is the 1892 birthplace of the rotund half of one of Hollywood's most famous comedic duos.

The festival will feature favorites such as a Laurel and Hardy look-alike contest, live entertainment, Laurel and Hardy skits and movies, rides and games for children, a raffle and a silent auction.

About 300 vendors already have confirmed they will sell their arts, crafts and food, Carter said.

"We do have some vendor spots left, but not many, though, and they are filling up real fast," Carter said. No more than 350 vendors will be allowed to set up at the festival.

Vendor booths range from $40 to $90, depending on the size and product. Vendor information and applications are available at www.harlemga.org.

For more information, call Carter at (706) 556-0043.