The Spring Open Market in Maplewood Village—taking place Saturday, April 24, from noon to 5 p.m.—is expanding this year. According to Village Alliance Manager Julie Doran, more streets will be closed to car traffic to allow for greater pedestrian activity.

"This is not the first time streets will be closed, but it is the first time they will be closed to this extent." In addition to Maplewood Avenue, Doran said that there will be partial closures on Baker Street, Highland Avenue and Inwood Place.

"We are really excited about this because it allows more merchants to participate outside with more activities, food and seasonal merchandise. It also creates a family friendly atmosphere and allows everyone to relax and enjoy all the areas of the Village, including the side streets. . . . without worrying about traffic." Doran promises "surprises around every corner."

Furthermore, Doran is encouraging everyone to leave their cars behind in the first place and find a more environmentally friendly way to get to town. "It's the end of Earth Week, so while there will be limited parking in and around the Village, we are encouraging everyone to walk, ride a bike or just pull a wagon."

Besides the more than 40 merchants participating, the event will also sport free, live music. Here are the times and locations (check the Maplewood Village Alliance website for updates):

Ricalton Square

12:00-2:00 p.m. Five Cent Philosophers

2:00-3:00 p.m. Slight Imperfection

3:00-5:00 p.m. 13 Scotland Road

Baker Street

12-1:00 p.m. Quantum Codpeace (A CHS high school band)

1:00-3:00 p.m. Lost Souls

3 to 3:15 p.m. Maplewood Karate Demo

3:30 to 5 p.m. Peggy Excel Stone - Lotus Petal Band