Bargain hunters were on the prowl as they meandered their way throughout downtown Palmerton in search of that special find.

Dreary skies didn't derail customers as they sauntered along several blocks of Delaware Avenue on Thursday to visit the 40th annual Sidewalk Sale.In these harsh economic times, the selection of marked down items were certain to strike the fancy of shoppers in search of thrifty deals.Eileen and Roger Mriss of Lehighton said they frequent the sale on a fairly regular basis."We just like to see what they have," Eileen Mriss said. "They really have some pretty good bargains."Susan Mullane of Palmerton said she's a real veteran of the sale."I purchase something every year," Mullane said. "It's wonderful, it bring all kinds of people, and the food is always good."Linda Smith of Walnutport said she was pleased with both the quality and quantity of the sale."It's always interesting every year, and they always seem to have more things out," Smith said. "Instead of getting smaller, it gets bigger."Christine Allen, owner of Math Explorers and Reading Escapades at 224 Delaware Avenue, said the sale is a merchant's dream."I think the Sidewalk Sale is at a great location, and it gets people to realize the businesses they have right in their backyard," Allen said. "It's the best way for merchants to meet the community."The sale continues from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. today, and from 9 a.m. to closing time on Saturday.