CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) -- Festival-goers say Friday and Saturday are nothing but stress relievers after a tumultuous last few weeks, not only in Charlotte but across the nation.

Thousands of people roamed Freedom Park Friday evening for the opening day of the 61st annual Festival in the Park.

"We wanted to come here because I like seeing the vendors -- all the vendors and what they have,” said Lisa and Reinaldo Robles in one of the city’s most serene settings. “I like the food and the kettle popcorn.”

Others agreed. The three-day festival features performances on multiple stages and nearly 200 visual artists' works on display.

"The biggest thing we look forward to every year is the local vendors being able to see the artists out here and the food. It's just so much to experi

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