Charlene Ledoux and Sandy LaFleur entertained in Main Street Park with a variety of folk songs on cello and dulcimer.

WILTON – From Gigi’s Country Store in the Yellow Building to the artists in the Riverview Mills at the end of Howard Street, the weekend mood was upbeat and confident, echoing the tulips and daffodils along the retaining wall and the live music in Main Street Park.

The world was invited to Wander Through Wilton over Mother’s Day weekend, and many people accepted. They wandered in and out of the many stores, chatting and filling in a “pass” that would give them a chance at a gift basket.

After a year of lock-down, the commonest comment was, “It’s so nice to be out and see people – talk to people.”

Although some places were closed or on limited hours, Main Street evolved over the past year. There are no empty storefronts except the bank building, and many of the occupants are new. The Town Hall Theater, however, remains as always.

Gigi’s Country store offers a variety of collectibles and other items.

The Proctor Building was purchased and totally renovated and now houses Lost Siren Hair Salon and photographer Ashley Wadleigh.

Artisan’s Boutique has moved up the street and into the former Harwood’s Market, offering crafts of all kinds, including some unique birdhouses made from old license plates and locally produced herbal lotions. There was also some bourbon-infused chocolate.

The Copper Kettle at 39 Main Street, a restaurant and beer garden, provides indoor and outdoor dining and a variety of craft beers.

Winding River Antiques has an upscale assortment including furniture.

At Riverview, the departure of the bead shop caused some rearranging, but the studios are mostly occupied. The Aherns, artist and photographer, share a studio in the White Building where the dollhouse restorer now has her intriguing workshop full of miniatures.

Many rear windows are now uncovered providing grand views of the Souhegan River and the remarkable trestle that replaced a covered bridge in 1911.

Boy Scout Troop 10 was selling plants in front of the Post Office and there was another, larger plant sale at the elementary school.

Although Putnam’s Clothing is closing after being in the family since 1934, and will be greatly missed, that space will become an art gallery and studio.

The spring flowers along the street and in Main Street Park are in full bloom, bright and cheerful, as was the music by Sandy LaFleur and Charlene Ledoux on dulcimer and cello. Their sprightly music included folk songs from many places with commentary on the song’s origins. Both are professional musicians offering lessons.

Ledoux was accompanied by a “Limber Jack,” a foot-tall jointed wooden puppet who tap-danced on a flexible board. Hers came from Vermont, she said, but they are an old toy, once very popular.

Main Street is alive and well, many said. Spring is bringing better times and it is so nice to be out.