(Photo submitted) Ohio-based singer/songwriter Zach will perform at this year's first Mainstreet Market on July 24.

In case of rain, the concert will take place at Arts on Grand.

Now in its second year at the courthouse square, Mainstreet Market is a weekly mini-festival featuring live entertainment, food, and a variety of goods available for purchase. The entertainment is enhanced by the shady, parklike atmosphere of the courthouse lawn. Audience members are invited to bring folding chairs with them, or they may watch the entertainment from the courthouse steps.

Zach's genuine love for music shows in everything he does, especially his high-energy shows, which frequently send people into "Zach Attacks," in which audience members are moved to rise out of their seats by the compulsion to dance, sing, cheer, or scream out.

Zach got his start on the coffee shop scene, which gave him the opportunity to grow as a performer. He still gravitates toward more intimate settings, such as house concerts, and toward songwriter shows, especially the New York Songwriter Circle at the Bitter End. "It is so inspiring to be on such a legendary stage with peers on both sides of your career, learning from them. You never stop learning. It's one of my favorite aspects of life." He was a finalist in the Soul City Café Music Quest sponsored by the pop star Jewel.

The Ohio-based singer/songwriter performs over 200 shows a year all over the country. He has shared the stage with Chicago, Bad Company, Maia Sharp, Rick Springfield, Rusted Root, Farm Aid, Jen Chapin, Michael Bolton, and Buckwheat Zydeco. His fan-focused approach to performing and promoting, which includes the widely popular "Zach Pack Newsletter," has earned him a growing and dedicated fan base. His website, www.Zachmusic.net, receives around 30,000 hits each month.

There is a wide variety to choose from at Mainstreet Market. The farmers market has everything from garden-fresh produce to cut flowers, potted plants, and baked goods. The artists market features original art by area artists as well as demonstrations.

Food vendors will be on hand to satisfy appetites. Flea market vendors are also invited to participate. There are no vendor fees. Vendors will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis, with setup starting at 4 p.m.

The July 24 Mainstreet Market is the first of five this summer. At each of the first four Markets, there will be an open mic for local performers to practice for the Mainstreet Market talent competition, which will take place on the last evening.

Mainstreet Market takes place every Thursday from 5-8 p.m. at the courthouse square, 215 W. Fourth St., Spencer. It is a joint venture of the Spencer Main Street Company and the Spencer Alliance for a Creative Economy (SPACE).