Sunsets and Cinema: A Creative Solution for Abingdon's Fairground Restoration Needs
By: Forgottonia Times™ Report
The Abingdon Community Festival, a cherished local tradition since 1954, recently hosted a series of drive-in movie nights at the fairgrounds, offering a nostalgic and innovative fundraising solution. This initiative, aimed at supporting the festival's infrastructure needs, was a resounding success.
Michael Anderson, the festival's Director and the Chair of the Advertising Committee, explained that with rising operational costs and aging infrastructure, the Fair Board needed a creative way to generate funds while providing family-friendly entertainment. The idea of a drive-in theater met all their criteria, and the community's response and support were formidable.
Over the span of three weekends, the Abingdon Community Festival Fairgrounds transformed into a lively drive-in theater. With an admission fee of just $5 per vehicle and concessions available most of the night, the event attracted around 450 attendees, raising nearly $5,000. Local businesses also played a crucial role, sponsoring the event and ensuring its success, receiving a hearty thank you from Anderson himself before the movie rolled.
The final night of the series was particularly memorable, graced by a beautiful sunset that painted the sky in hues of orange and pink. Cars began lining up early, filled with eager movie-goers bundled in blankets and snuggled into their pillows or chairs, popcorn in hand. Some groups set up cozy cavities in the trunk of their cars or truck beds, others preferred the picnic blanket and chairs method, and still others opted for the comfort of their car seats. No matter the method, the community was excited and ready to enjoy the show. As the vibrant colors faded into a dark sky, the movie screen illuminated the fairgrounds, casting a cinematic glow over the assembled vehicles. The air was filled with laughter, the scent of popcorn, and a sentimental feeling that only a classic drive-in movie experience could elicit.
Anderson explained that the funds raised from the drive-in series will be used for essential building restorations on the fairgrounds. The small livestock building, for instance, is in dire need of a new roof, which is estimated to cost around $50,000. The merchant building, too, requires washing and painting, a project costing around $17,000. Anderson explained that the Fair Board is also discussing erecting a new bathroom within the midway, among many other enhancements to make the fair more accessible.
Despite the long road ahead, the drive-in series has provided a hopeful start. Anderson expressed confidence that, with continued fundraising efforts and community support, the festival's facilities can be preserved and improved for future generations.
Anderson emphasized the importance of community involvement. When asked how community members can support the Fair, Anderson answered: "Volunteer your time, make donations, and enjoy what we have to offer." They are always seeking new members to join their efforts, and "when they say it takes a village, it really does." The Fair Board encourages everyone to come out and experience the Fair for themselves this year from August 22-25th.
The Abingdon Community Fall Festival has a rich history. It was founded in 1954 by a group of dedicated residents whose vision was to create a family-friendly environment that would bring joy and entertainment to the youth of Abingdon. Over the years, the festival has grown, offering a wide range of activities, including vegetables, baked goods, arts and crafts, and livestock judging. Highlights of the festival include the Figure 8 race, kids' games, chicken and pig scramble, and carnival rides.
Anderson encouraged everyone to follow the festival's Facebook page for updates on events and initiatives. Their Facebook page is also a great platform to ask questions, share memories, and connect with other festival enthusiasts. As they continue to expand and enhance their offerings, Anderson noted that the Fair is "truly on the cusp of being able to house so many experience-based entertainment options" and looks forward to creating many more cherished memories with their community.
The Abingdon Community Festival is more than just an event—it's a tradition, a celebration of heritage, and a testament to the community's spirit. With the success of the drive-in series, the festival is well on its way to ensuring that it remains a beloved fixture in Abingdon and for the surrounding communities to enjoy for generations to come.
For more information about the festival and how to support it, visit the Abingdon Community Festival's Facebook page. And remember to mark your calendars for August 22nd-25th!
