Telegraph photo by DEAN SHALHOUP Pam Harwood, of Hollis, listens to Tolan Oakenshield, one of the more popular psychics each year at City Arts Nashua's Psychic Fair, during her reading at Sunday's 10th annual fair.

NASHUA – While City Arts Nashua members and volunteers were inside the Hunt Memorial Building Sunday morning, setting up for its 10th annual Psychic Fair, a line of customers was already stretching out the door and down the granite steps of the historic former city library.

“We were busy from the moment we opened,” longtime CAN member Judy Carlson said in between helping CAN staff and volunteers process visitors’ requests for readings.

“Busy … very busy today,” psychic Tolan Oakenshield chimed in as he maneuvered his way toward the exit for a brief break – realizing that the emphasis was on “brief.” A Tarot card reader who specializes in the Romani tradition, Oakenshield has been a fair participant since its inception.

Ten psychics – the 11th, citing health issues, had to withdraw – and three artisan vendors participated in this, the 10th annual version of the event, the proceeds of which help support CAN’s “cultural mission” and to promote a “vibrant arts scene” in Greater Nashua, according to CAN spokeswoman Allegra Boverman.

While the readers are glad to participate in an event that helps a worthy nonprofit such as CAN, the venue is the proverbial icing on the cake.

“They love being in the iconic and evocative Gothic-style Hunt building,” Boverman said, adding that she’s received plenty of comments to that effect.

“I wouldn’t miss this fair, and would change my scheduled to make sure I can attend every year,” Michelle Trahan, who has participated all 10 years, told Boverman.

For more information on CAN, its programs and upcoming projects, go to www.cityartsnashua.org.

Dean Shalhoup may be reached at 594-1256 or dshalhoup@nashuatelegraph.com.