Carnation Festival Kicks Off with Vibrant Food Fest and Diverse Lineup of Events
The Greater Alliance Carnation Festival, a beloved annual celebration, kicked off its 2024 edition with a lively Food Fest at the University of Mount Union. Warm temperatures and bright sunshine set the stage for a large and enthusiastic crowd to enjoy a variety of food vendors and a captivating performance by Jimmy and the Soul Blazers. The newly crowned Carnation Queen and her court made their debut, adding to the festive atmosphere. As the festival moves into high gear, a packed schedule of events promises to delight attendees of all ages, from a Community Luncheon featuring a special guest to the ever-popular Friends of Rodman Library Used Book Sale.
Celebrating the Carnation's Legacy with a Vibrant Festival
Kickoff Night Draws Crowds to Enjoy Food and Music
The opening night of the 2024 Greater Alliance Carnation Festival Food Fest was a resounding success, with the Campus Lakes at the University of Mount Union providing the perfect backdrop for the event. The warm and sunny weather attracted a large crowd, who eagerly explored the diverse array of food vendors and settled in to enjoy the soulful sounds of Jimmy and the Soul Blazers. The newly crowned Carnation Queen, Oneal Everett, and her court of attendants, including Miss Congeniality Lilyan Ronske, 1st Attendant Isabella Hall, 2nd Attendant Alexandra Ritchie, and 3rd Attendant Sophia Ayers, made their way through the crowd, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.The Food Fest, which will continue throughout the weekend, offers attendees the opportunity to indulge in a wide range of culinary delights while soaking in the lively ambiance of the festival. The event's popularity is a testament to the community's enthusiasm for this annual celebration of the carnation, a symbol deeply rooted in the history and identity of the Greater Alliance region.
Packed Schedule of Events Promises Diverse Experiences
As the Carnation Festival moves into its full swing, a diverse lineup of events is set to captivate attendees. On Saturday, the Community Luncheon will feature a special guest speaker – Mike Lamborn, the great-great nephew of Levi Lamborn, the creator of the scarlet carnation. Lamborn, a winery owner from California's Napa Valley, will share insights into his family's connection to this iconic flower and its significance to the region.Saturday also marks the highly anticipated kickoff of the Friends of Rodman Library Used Book Sale, a wildly popular event that draws book enthusiasts from near and far. The first day is reserved for members only, but memberships will be available for purchase at the door, allowing everyone to participate in the literary treasure hunt.Automotive enthusiasts will not want to miss the Auto Show at Glamorgan Castle, while families can enjoy the children's Pedal Tractor Pull at the University of Mount Union. Sunday's lineup includes a Fishing Derby, the Pump-In and Muster at Glamorgan Castle, and the Kick-Off Parade, as well as the final weekend of Shakespeare at the Castle, featuring a production of "Romeo and Juliet."
Carnation Festival Queen Contenders Donate Generously to Local Pantry
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Carnation Festival queen contenders have donated an impressive 1,900 pounds of food to the Alliance Community Pantry. This generous contribution underscores the festival's commitment to supporting local initiatives and strengthening the bonds within the Greater Alliance community.The Carnation Festival has long been a cherished tradition, celebrating the region's rich history and the enduring legacy of the carnation. This year's edition promises to be a vibrant and diverse celebration, offering something for everyone, from food and music to literary and automotive delights. As the festival unfolds, the community can look forward to a weekend filled with joy, camaraderie, and a renewed appreciation for the unique cultural heritage that makes the Greater Alliance region so special.
