Saturday, April 11, is a big day for Bishop Hill. It’s the official springtime opening for the village and offers something for everyone.

Among the events returning is the sixth annual book fair, held at the Bishop Hill Creative Commons from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Participating authors represent a wide range of genres, from children’s books, history and young adult novels to romance, mystery, memoir, poetry and horror. Authors will be present to discuss their writing and give autographs.

According to Jannifer Powelson, book fair coordinator and participating author, “The fair is a way to meet authors and hear them discuss their work, learn about publishing and support local writers,” she said, adding that aspiring authors will benefit from the experience.

Books will be available for purchase. There is no fee to attend, and a portion of the proceeds from the book sales will go to Crossroads Cultural Connections.

The Commons is located at 309 Bishop Hill Street and features artwork and jewelry by local artists, making it an ideal place to buy the perfect gift for a friend, relative or even yourself.

The building is also used as a venue for various musicians, with performances almost every weekend. Many groups are professional traveling troupes who offer a wide range of musical styles. On Saturday, April 11, musician Rye Davis will perform. Known as the “Kentucky Troubadour,” he is often compared to Randy Travis and Alan Jackson.

Billed as a modern-day storyteller, he has performed at the Levitt AMP concerts in Galva and is a favorite of audiences of all ages. The program begins at 7 p.m. with a potluck and social hour starting at 6 p.m. For information on the performance and suggested donations, go to www.xroadscc.org.

For bargain hunters, the Bishop Hill Old Settlers’ Association is hosting its “This ‘N That” rummage sale at the Colony School, located at 405 W. Main St. There, shoppers will find a large array of items for sale. Organizers encourage visitors to stop by the Colony School to find a special treasure, trinkets or tchotchke while they are visiting the opening weekend in Bishop Hill.

The sale runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 11 and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 12. A portion of the proceeds will be used to make needed repairs to the school, including new air conditioning to replace the aged equipment.

Come welcome spring and the beginning of the tourist season in Bishop Hill as various stores, museums and restaurants offer special discounts, events and activities.

Collect signatures from six businesses or museums and be entered for a gift basket drawing at the Colony Store. For more information on the drawing, phone 309-927-3898 or email VasaArchivist@gmail.com.