Residents and visitors flocked to Court Street yesterday to enjoy the first street fair of the summer season.

More than 40 retailers and fast-food owners set up stalls along the street, which was closed to traffic for the event.

Live entertainment from several majorette groups and singer Lady Tyson added to the carnival-like atmosphere.

Event organiser and Court Street businessman Gary Augustus said that, after a slow start, the afternoon had become busier.

Mr Augustus, who runs the Soulfood Cafe and Connections Boutique, said: “It’s going pretty good. The weather wasn’t great so we had a few cancellations and a slow start, but things have been picking up through the afternoon.

“It’s a very important for the vendors to get their names out there, most of the vendors have full-time jobs and this is a sideline for them so they really look forward to it.

“We hold these fairs when a holiday’s approaching, that’s when people want to go out and have a good time. We’re hoping that it will grow, and hopefully we can attract more tourists here.

“The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation and the Corporation of Hamilton have been major supporters for us and I really would like to thanks them.“

Rhea Gibbons, who runs the Heaven And Earth creative healing store with her mother, Tracey, said she was “enjoying the vibe”.

She said: “This is such an important event for us because it allows us to get out and meet our customers.

“We run the business out of a yoga studio on Ord Road, so it’s good to get out into the community.”

Shoppers who spent more than $25 were entered into a draw for a slew of prizes donated by retailers.

The next Court Street market will be on June 19, but street festival fans do not have to wait until then for the next event. This year’s Harbour Nights street festival season kicks off on Front Street tomorrow.