Wayne County Fair Director, Pam Ferranti, announced the decision to host a family-friendly free harvest festival at the Union Agricultural Fairgrounds in Palmyra after Canaltown Days was canceled. The festival, scheduled for September 13, will feature vendors, a car show, a barn dance, and musical entertainment. The decision to cancel Canaltown Days was due to inadequate vendor response, increasing costs, volunteer shortages, and changing regulations. The festival’s board of directors decided to dissolve the corporation following the cancellation.
In response to the cancellation, Ferranti and her board quickly organized the alternative harvest festival, offering vendors space in Floral Hall and the fair’s commercial buildings. The event aims to provide an opportunity for vendors who had planned to participate in Canaltown Days. The new festival will not include a parade, but will focus on providing a fun and family-friendly atmosphere for attendees.
The cancellation of Canaltown Days, a 56-year-old event that brought various activities to the streets of Palmyra each fall, has disappointed many in the community, including long-time organizers like Tom Klemann. Despite the challenges faced by event organizers, the decision to cancel the festival was made in order to prevent financial losses and maintain the quality of the event. Residents and participants have expressed their disappointment but understand the reasoning behind the decision.
Planning for the harvest festival is underway, with new volunteers stepping forward to help organize the event. Ferranti is optimistic about the success of the impromptu festival and hopes it will provide a fun and engaging experience for attendees. The festival will feature a range of activities and entertainment, providing a new opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the harvest season.
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