From left to right, a group of dedicated Parma residents including Laura Mendez, Amanda Rudloff, Andy Barber, and Michelle Barber, have announced the highly anticipated return of the Parma Day Fall Festival to downtown Parma on Saturday, Sept. 21. The festival, a beloved community tradition dating back to the 1970s, is set to kick off at 8 a.m.
A Revived Tradition
Organizer Laura Mendez shared that the festival, once cherished by Parma locals, was unfortunately canceled in 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following a year of absence, the group of passionate residents decided to revive the event, driven by the desire to bring back the free, family-friendly celebration that holds special memories for many. "We grew up with it, and we missed it," organizer Amanda Rudloff expressed.
Exciting Additions
This year, the Parma Day Fall Festival Committee, comprised of Rudloff, Mendez, and the Barbers, have introduced new elements to keep the downtown area bustling throughout the day. In addition to the traditional parade, attendees can look forward to a car show, live music, and a variety of vendors. Reflecting on past events, Mendez noted the importance of maintaining a lively atmosphere to ensure a memorable experience for all visitors.
Anticipated Turnout
Despite initial expectations of around 200 attendees, organizers were pleasantly surprised when over 1,000 people flocked to the festival grounds, eager to reconnect with their community post-pandemic. This year, with the return of country music artist Jason Cross for a special performance, a larger crowd is anticipated to partake in the festivities.
Diverse Offerings
The 2023 festival will feature a diverse range of activities including axe throwing, a parade, a car show, vendors, a cornhole tournament, and delectable fare from food trucks. Attendees can also look forward to a lively mullet contest, judged by none other than Jason Cross himself. Over 37 vendors will be present, showcasing an array of items such as baked goods, fall crafts, prints, tumblers, and 3D printed toys. For younger attendees, the event will include a Kids Zone, a beet tent, and the engaging Gellyball shooting game.
A Day to Remember
Excited for the event's return in 2024, organizers hope to raise awareness of the positive happenings within Parma. With a focus on creating a budget-friendly, family-oriented environment, the team aims to provide a space where families can spend quality time together
Full Schedule of Events
- 8 to 10 a.m. – Pancake breakfast at the Masonic Temple, 100 W. Main St.
- Noon – Parade starting at Parma Elementary School, 385 Elizabeth St., circling through Grove Street to Main Street and back to the school.
- 1 p.m. – Car show on E. Main Street
- 1 p.m. – Cornhole registration begins on E. Main Street
- 1 to 3 p.m. – Live performance from Good Question
- 2 p.m. – Cornhole tournament kicks off
- 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. – Comedian Chris Young entertains the crowd
- 4:30 p.m. – Mullet contest takes center stage
- 5 to 7 p.m. – Jason Cross serenades the audience
- 7:30 p.m. – After party at Fergs’ Parma Pub, 10962 W. Michigan Ave
For further details, visit the Parma Days Facebook page.