“We like to say we are a good family event with something for everyone,” he said.
Park Lane resident William Copp said the number one reason to visit is the Saturday parade. The other is the grilled pork chop sandwich.
“I don’t even use the bun, it melts in your mouth so you don’t need it,” he said, smiling.
Vendor Dick Rhoades sold more than 1,000 ears of sweet corn over the weekend. This is the only Clark County festival he works.
“What stands out about this is the committee. They’re like family to us,” Rhoades said.
The festival kicked off Friday with about 1,000 cars participating in its annual cruise-in, a record according to Lowrey. The first-time motorcycle event the following day drew 100-200 bikes.
The festival offers one of the more unusual and fun takes on races with the Jim Slanker Memorial Chair Race.
Named in tribute to the late owner of a former downtown furniture store, participants modify recliners as two person teams – one pushing and one sitting – race down a 50-foot stretch of S. Main Street, navigating through cones on the way down, switching people and carrying a glass and bowl of popcorn back to the finish line.
There are three classes including speed, Sunday drivers for casual and best-dressed and prizes for top three finishers, ranging from $100 to $50.
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Some of the racers represented local businesses, causes or themselves. Others like schoolgirl cousins Naomi Eggleston and Becky Wilson do it for fun and fashion with their names on their racer.
Last year the pair won the $50 best-dressed prize. This year they switched to an easier chair.
Wilson said if she earned prize money she’d buy art supplies to indulge in her hobby of drawing and give some to her church’s offering.
The festival wound down Sunday afternoon with the Blessing of the Badges Ceremony. In its third year recognizing community heroes.
“It brings all first responders together for a chance for a spiritual calling,” said New Carlisle Fire Chief Steven Trusty. “We draw first responders from other counties, not just those on the job here.”
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