Spring was on display in Gordonsville Saturday.
Folks flocked to Main Street for the inaugural Gordonsville in Bloom festival celebrating all things spring. The festival, which was a nod to the town’s previously held street festival, featured vendors, activities, food trucks and live music near town hall. Attendees enjoyed a make it and take it bouquet bar, a growing station hosted by Westwind Flowers, learned about community resources including upcoming summer programs and purchased handmade goods from local artisan and craft vendors before enjoying a selection of food truck delicacies. Live music was offered by Andrew McKnight and Beyond Borders. Children enjoyed crafts at some of the information booths as well as an egg hunt.
Gordonsville Director of Community and Economic Development Anna Pillow said the festival was a success, including the welcoming weather. She estimates that approximately 1,000 people attended Saturday’s event.
“We received some great feedback from attendees and vendors on the day including residents who were pleased to have a community festival they could walk to,” Pillow said. “One couple visiting from out of town stayed all day–first listening to Andrew McKnight & Beyond Borders, then sticking around for the open jam with Alex Caton, Phil Audibert and other local musicians.”
Pillow said vendors reported solid sales. Just Dogs, owned by John Robinson, was so popular he had to briefly pause operations to replenish supplies. Other food options–Carrie’s Soul Food Cafe on the go, Gee’s Bavarian Nutz, Patty’s Pierogies LLC and Witch’s Brew Cafe were also popular among festival attendees.
Pillow said the festival wouldn’t have been possible without youth volunteers who helped with setup, breakdown and activities including the bloom bar, scavenger hunt maps and the egg hunt. Anyone interested in volunteering to assist with future festivals is encouraged to reach out to the town.
Gordonsville in Bloom is just the beginning.
“I think it is safe to say that we’re looking ahead to more festivals on Main Street,” Pillow said.
Plans are underway for a July 4 themed event, the annual Fried Chicken Festival in October and a Christmas-themed event in December. “Updates about town events will always be posted on our website, www.townofgordonsville.org/events, so folks are encouraged to take a look and stay informed.”
