Join in the fun at the Pike Place Market Street Festival

Hoyin Lai was in charge of the racetrack Saturday at Steinbrueck Park, but he was not above stepping in as engineer.

Zucchini-car aerodynamics are complicated. If the young racers had trouble, the 21-year-old University of Washington student pointed out rounded bellies that slowed the descent down the track, and wheels that were askew.

But once the cars, customized with colorful pipe cleaners and feathers, were ready, Lai returned to his spot at the start for the Zucchini 500.

"Get ready for Round 63 of the Zucchini Races," he shouted to observers.

The annual Pike Place Market Street Festival added energy to the already bustling market Saturday, as tourists and locals mingled among arts and crafts stalls, a stage featuring street buskers, a main stage with live bands and the Kids' Zone, with seed planting, fish printing and piggy snouts.

Organizers expected to draw about 85,000 to 100,000 visitors for the two-day festival, which continues today. They hope to raise $10,000 through the $1 suggested donation. The money will benefit the Market Foundation, which runs service agencies including a clinic, food bank, child care and senior center.

Overcast skies, occasional rain and temperatures in the 50s kept the crowds manageable.

Amy Bishop, visiting from Texas, spent part of the day in the Kids' Zone with her three children. Daughter Autumn, 4, busied herself erasing a chalkboard pig, then scribbling on it with pink chalk.

"We keep finding more fun things to do," she said.

Nicole Tsong: 206-464-2150 or ntsong@seattletimes.com