South Vienna wrapped up its 35th annual Corn Festival this past weekend.
Still to come is CultureFest 2011 on the City Hall Plaza in downtown Springfield from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. Sept. 24. Organizers say the free event, now in its 15th year, focuses on community collaboration, issues of diversity and heritage. There will be musical, dance and interactive performers, lots of good food, and special attractions such as tours of the Gammon House, Springfield’s Underground Railroad museum, and a children’s activity tent and the CultureJam Circle.
The next weekend, New Carlisle is the scene of the seventh annual Heritage of Flight Festival. That event starts at 4 p.m. Sept. 30, with a classic cruise-in, which last year featured more than 750 vehicles. On Saturday, there’s entertainment beginning at 10 a.m., followed by the unique Parade of Planes and community parade at 11 a.m. The festival continues through Sunday with more entertainment, food, rides and contests.
On Saturday, Oct. 1, Pitchin plays host to its annual Apple Butter Festival, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. The apple butter is made in a huge copper kettle over an open fire just a few miles south of Springfield on Selma Road. You can also enjoy a thick, grilled pork chop dinner, peruse the crafts and enjoy live music.
On Oct. 8 and 9, Enon will hold its 31st Apple Butter Festival. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. There’s a vast array of food — including the famous apple butter made in copper kettles on-site — plus juried arts, crafts, gifts and entertainment.
We are very fortunate to live in a community that values its history, its culture and its traditions, and to keep those values alive through festivals like these, not just this time of the year, but throughout the entire year.
It takes the hard work and dedication of people who make the commitment — sometimes year round — and that do the things necessary to make these positive events a reality. A big thanks to all of you.
By the way, the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce now says the dedication for the National Road Commons Park in downtown Springfield will take place on Friday, Oct. 7. In case you haven’t seen it, crews are preparing the Madonna of the Trail statue on U.S. 40 near the Snyder Park Golf Course for its relocation to the new park. The event will include food vendors and a dedication ceremony. At 7 p.m. that evening, Springfield singer-songwriter Griffin House will perform.
We always welcome your input about this column, including suggestions on something you would like us to include or to check on. Call (937) 328-0381 or email Darryl.Bauer@cmgohio.com.
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