There were positive additions to this year’s festival. One of the most notable additions was having the Commerce Business Information Center open for a variety of performances throughout the day. It also hosted the only air conditioned venue. Denise McKay, Mainstreet director, wanted to make sure we included some events in this newly renovated building. The Commerce School of Dance brought in members of their dance group to perform several selections of tap, ballet and jazz. The Cold Sassy Players performed one-act plays featuring unsuspecting audience members. Dannette Flint and Susan Stephenson always make me laugh, so having them as part of our festival this year added a lot of fun.
The City Lights Promotions Committee did a good job of reviewing food vendor and craft vendor applications to ensure that there would not be any duplicates so festival-goers would had a wide variety to choose from and vendors would not have to compete with other vendors selling the same items. Among my family’s favorites were the key lime pies dipped in chocolate, Italian ice, funnel cakes and a greasy Philly cheese steak. My daughters quickly spotted “American Girl” type clothing hand made by a lady from Atlanta. We bought several pieces and the lady said she would tell Santa Claus about her clothes so they might receive some for Christmas.
The kids’ zone featured a water slide where participants could cool off. There were also pony rides, train rides, jumping houses and “air batting.” Kids could also make sand art, bracelets, necklaces and get their faces painted.
Other special points of interest were the 5K Race through downtown, a Farmers’ Market where we bought the most delicious tomatoes, a car show, and sidewalk sale.
The bands were fabulous. I was pleased to have invited a group I personally know. Lullwater is from Athens. The lead singer is the younger brother of a friend of mine from college. When I first heard their CD two years ago, I immediately fell in love with their music. Lullwater recently won a Battle of the Bands concert in Charlotte, NC. Their new CD will be available soon.
The Eli Carlan Band wrapped up the night with a huge audience enjoying all of its music. This local band is a crowd favorite and did an excellent job wrapping up the night before our fireworks show. Fireworks are a huge hit and people lined the streets of downtown Commerce watching the show.
It was nice to witness all the great volunteers come together to pull off this day-packed event. Without our volunteers, City Lights would not be possible. It is obvious that folks are proud of their city and they will do anything they can to make our festival be successful.
If you attended this year’s festival, your input would be greatly appreciated. There are several ways to give us your feedback. Feel free to e-mail me at jamassey@windstream.net or Denise McKay at mainstreet@commercega.org. We also have a Facebook page with pictures highlighting the day’s events. You can join us at Commerce Mainstreet on Facebook and offer your suggestions there.
Thank you to all who helped put together a successful event! Commerce is a great place to live, work, shop and enjoy the City Lights Festival!
Tricia Massey is a member of the Commerce Downtown Development Authority, serves on the board of directors of the Boys and Girls Club of Jackson County, chairs the Commerce Public Library’s capital campaign fund and is marketing director for Renaissance Senior Communities.
