The Grand Avenue Business Association, the folks who put on Grand Old Days, will begin accepting vendor applications at 9 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 8. Dubbed "Saint Paul's first rite of summer," Grand Old Days is now a two day event -- Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 5.

New for 2016, GABA will be accepting applications for independent artists and crafters to showcase their work in the inaugural Arts and Culture District.

Interested vendors and artists may apply by visiting GrandAve.com and clicking on the "Grand Old Days" tab.

Grand Old Days is one of the largest festivals in the Midwest, drawing more than 275,000 people each year from across the region. The event features food, live music and shopping along Grand Avenue, St. Paul's "premier premier shopping, dining, and entertainment district," according to organizers.

For information on the Grand Avenue Business Association, its members and events, please visit GrandAve.com or call 651-699-0029.