When people come to the Delphos Canal Days, they usually come for the fun rides or the free entertainment. However, for downtown business owners, the activities create an influx of customers, and September can be a slow month.
"And taxes are due. It's awesome. It pays a lot of bills, and it's a lot of fun," said Lorrie Metzger, owner, Rustic Cafe.
The Rustic Café is just steps away from the excitement of waterball, and when contestants are done battling it out in their firefighter uniforms they can come in for some specials.
Finding out just how much of an impact a community festival has is difficult to determine, but the festivals do draw big crowds.
"We've estimated as many as 7,000 at one time," said Greg Berquist, safety services director, Delphos. Berquist adds that the numbers fluctuate, but the calm weather this weekend is helping.
Many people who've moved out of the community return each year for canal days, and many return to their favorite shops. John Odenweller has already rung up purchases for customers who live in New Bremen, Lima, and much farther away.
"In fact people from Indianapolis just bought 10 dollar sweaters," said Odenweller, owner of Lion Clothing. Odenweller says Canal Days gives him a chance to offer sales on old spring merchandise.
Canal Days continues through Sunday evening. So, store owners have plenty more time to make some big sales, and festival attendees have just as much time to snag a deal and help a local business.
