Old Town is liveliest on weekends from March to December when hundreds of people descend on the Portland Saturday Market, billing itself the largest outdoor crafts market in the US. The market began in 1974 with 30 vendors; today there are about 275 stalls and booths selling everything from pottery, baskets, candles and tie-dyed T-shirts to herbs, walking sticks, music boxes and exotic foods. Bands and entertainers add to the festive atmosphere.