Butler's annual fall fest returning to Main Street again
The annual Butler Fall Festival is returning to Main Street this year.
Last year's event was held at Michelle Krill Field at Historic Pullman Park because organizers couldn't round up enough volunteers to hold the festival on Main Street, Don Shearer, president of the festival, said Wednesday.
He said the board of directors decided at a meeting Tuesday night to bring this year's event, the 42nd annual, back to Main Street on Sept. 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 6 p.m.
“Putting it on Main Street requires a lot of volunteers. This year, we're making a more concerted effort to get the number we need to keep it on Main Street,” Shearer said. “We're going to do everything in our power to have it there.”
Only 10 people volunteered to help last year, forcing the board to relocate the event to the ballpark to avoid overburdening the small group. Shearer couldn't estimate how many volunteers are needed, but said two board members will start seeking them.
They will ask community organizations for volunteers to help vendors set up, direct traffic and help festivalgoers find what they are looking for, he said.
One or more volunteers will be needed to organize a car show, he said.
A couple of changes are being made to the event.
Live music will be performed in Diamond Park, but the other music stages on Main Street are being eliminated in favor of smaller musical performances inside businesses.
Butler Brew Works has agreed to be a musical host, and Shearer said he hopes more businesses will want to host a band.
Businesses are also being asked to host demonstrations or promotional events.
All About Reclaimed has agreed to host a flower arranging demonstration.
“We hope all the local businesses find something they can promote through the Fall Festival,” Shearer said. “We've got to get out and meet with the businesses.”
In addition, the festival board is asking organizations to host events after the festival to keep people downtown during the evening. Shearer said a ballgame or some other activity might be held at the ballpark after the festival.
People interested in volunteering and businesses wishing to participate can call Shearer at 724-592-7712 or leave a message on the festival's Facebook page.
