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DARIEN, Conn. With families on summer vacations and kids away at camp, it can get slow for businesses such as Steve DeMasco's Shaolin Studios. But that wasn't the case Thursday as hundreds of people were out on the streets for the start of the Darien Sidewalks Sales and Family Fun Days.
"It's a great opportunity to get out there and educate people who might not be very familiar with the studio," said Cesare Fellah, who works at the Kung Fu studio. He and Kevin Rovelli sat under a tent Thursday, handing out fliers and talking to passersby about the 1,500-year-old martial art they practice.
Angela White and Cabrina Williams of Baubles in Darien happily greeted customers who perused their collection of watches and sunglasses. White acknowledged that a lot of people go away during the summer but said the Sidewalk Sale provides a nice boost to business.
"We've been really busy all day," White said. "The Sidewalk Sale is good. It gives you a chance to feel like a part of the community and see people you haven't seen in a while."
Crowds of shoppers walked down Post Road, perusing the various shops that had set up tents outside and were offering discounts. There was also plenty of entertainment, with jugglers, musical acts and an inflatable castle set up in front of the Darien Thrift Shop.
The event also attracts businesses from neighboring towns. Marie Wendorff of Witchypoo in downtown Wilton likes to come and sell her seasonal accessories to a large market. The biggest sellers have been coral and turquoise jewelry.
"It's just really good to be out there and be able to introduce yourself on a more personal level," Wendorff said.
Darien Sidewalk Sales and Summer Fun Days continue through Friday and Saturday in the Goodwives Shopping Center, Noroton Heights and on Post Road.
Did you find anything good at the Sidewalk Sales? Tell us what you got in the comments below, on Facebook and on Twitter.
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