Market Street Day was held earlier than usual this year. Apparently because of the intense heat, the crowd was sparse.
SALEM -- Two popular Salem City events combined on a single day this weekend.
Not only was Market Street Day held on Saturday, but this year the Barbecue Cook-Off was held the same day.
There was music on stage at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Mini-Park for the event, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., along with antique cars and informational booths and entertainment for the kids.
Usually held in late August, the date for Market Street Day was moved up to an earlier weekend this year.
Unfortunately, the crowd was sparse, visitors apparently held off by the intense heat. Market Street Day is usually a very large draw for the city. Temperatrues were in the mid 90s during most of the event.
The number of participants also appeared down from previous years.
Salem's Market Street Day is saved
On East Broadway, several barbecue vendors set up, cooking their signature ribs right on the spot.
This was the 42nd year for Market Street Day.
The event almost didn't take place last year until Salem Main Street and Salem City Council stepped in to help continue the tradition.
Bill Gallo Jr. may be reached at bgallo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Bill Gallo Jr. on Twitter @bgallojr. Find NJ.com on Facebook.