Braving the brisk fall-like weather, throngs of visitors, residents and guests poured onto the John Wright Bridge this morning to be part of the 23rd Annual Bridge Bust.

Walkers, shoppers, buyers and vendors bundled to contend with the colder than expected weather … despite the grey skies, the folks on the bridge were ebullient, smiling, talking with friends and acquaintances. Vendors selling hot coffee, hot baked goods, hot sandwiches, hot French Fries were selling lots of product. So, too, were those selling scarves, hoodies and caps.

We saw and spoke with a number of people including former market house vendors, borough councilors, citizens and visitors. Everyone said they were enjoying the day and they beamed as they spoke about the crowds. There were a few vacant vendor spaces on the bridge, but that did not detract from the fun the Bridge Bust-ers were having.

The Turkey Hill cow was there.

And this gentleman …

The guys selling fries did pretty well!

Sales were not as hot for the ice cream, iced tea, soft drink, smoothie, chilled foods vendors!

Water watchers on the Bridge.

The Bridge Bust kindles the spirit of “community.” Everyone in town seemed to be participating and doing business.

Two guys at Poor Man’s Art along Third Street had this nifty display …

We saw cars actually stop, smile and wave for pedestrians at crosswalks at Third and Walnut Streets, but we saw this looking towards the river.

Good job, Columbia. Let’s hear a round of applause for all the folks (organizers, vendors, patient residents and business owners, public safety and public works staffs, volunteers and visitors) who work so hard to put this on.