The Annual Fair Grove Heritage Reunion Festival was on September 28-29th. During the last weekend of September, the festival filled the streets of Fair Grove, bringing tens of thousands of visitors to the small town.
This year marks the 47th year of the Heritage Reunion Festival. There were many different kinds of activities available for both kids and adults. Festivities included the parade, food vendors, craft booths, petting zoo, and different demonstrations.
Many of the craft vendors offered handmade, one-of-a-kind items. One of these vendors at the festival was Fair Grove High School’s own teacher, Susanne Feldman. According to Feldman, she sold hair bows, earrings, clips, and headbands. She also decided to extend her booth offerings this year, and sell boys clothing.
Feldman was not the only person at the school who was involved with the festival. Many different clubs and sports teams worked the event as well. Most of them worked at different parking lots, but others worked as vendors or were involved in game booths. These activities served as big fundraisers for these students and clubs.
Not only is the Heritage Reunion a great way for students and staff to earn money for their clubs, it’s also a perfect opportunity to make new memories with their friends and family. According to Kynlee Peck (10), “ The best experience was the 2023 Fall Festival when I got to walk around with my friends and work with all my friends.”
Since the Heritage Reunion is a tradition for our community, many former students and residents come back to visit at this time. Peck also stated that one of her favorite memories from this year’s festival was seeing one of her former teammates from the Lady Eagles volleyball team, Faith Klindworth, who graduated in the 2023-2024 school year.
Another highlight for locals is the various food choices offered at the festival. Many of the food offerings have become a tradition for those who regularly attend the yearly gathering. Corn on the cob, ham and beans, curly fries, and funnel cakes are just a few of the delicious examples that are available each year.
Peck mentioned that her favorite part of the festival was getting food that is normally not offered. Feldman also stated how the food played a big role in the festival. She said that her favorite part was, “The food and friends I get to see, plus seeing all the amazing things people have made.”
The Fair Grove Heritage Reunion returns each fall on the last full weekend of September.
