French Festival 2024

French fest has been a part of our community for over 50 years. It's a time when families get together and walk the village, shop the vendors and our local businesses, visit the kids zone, and enjoy the block party/fireworks at night.  Sitting for hours just to save the best seat for the parade has become a tradition, there's something for everyone. French Fest is something that families move to town just to be a part of because it makes your heart full seeing everyone so happy and coming together. With thousands of people coming to town just for this weekend every year, it's surely a sight to see.

Why are we doing this?

To see this tradition disappear would be devastating for everyone. The businesses look forward to this weekend every year just as much as members of the community and people visiting do.  In recent years, the requirements to monitor safety have changed greatly.  The days of volunteers and fire police helping are over.  This means altering the way we have done it forever. We are at a pivotal point we either hire a security team or cancel the event.  On average the cost of security is $20k, that is a $20k increase to the event expenses without a $20k revenue stream to offset the cost.  For the first time, we are at real risk of canceling the French Festival due to the increased costs associated with the event.

What do we need from you?

We need your help. Without you none of this would ever be possible! We have a lot of people ask " How can we donate and help when we can't attend an event hours away?" We hear you and decided to create a GoFundMe! This allows anyone from anywhere to donate without the pressure of a certain dollar amount or needing to be a part of a raffle or event. We need YOUR help sharing and getting the word out there. We believe that we can do it! 

All money would specifically go to the French Festival and the ability to keep the tradition alive.