BY: Kahlil Dukes
Niagara County’s 60th Annual Peach Festival was one for the ages. Sponsored by Lewiston Kiwanis, the festival set out to raise money for children programs and local charities around the Niagara County communities. Those who were not in attendance definitely missed out on great music, food, candy, fireworks, amusement rides, laughs and just an all-around great event. Hosted in Academy Park of Lewiston, this festival was full of action. Citizens from all over the Niagara, Lewiston, Buffalo and the entire Western New York area were in attendance for all the fun the festival has to offer.
One could hear the joy in all of the children’s voices from a mile away, as they were given free candy. Local stores and endeavors were also in attendance at the festival, giving out flyers and trying to promote their brand and sell products to the festivals many visitors. Products like jewelry, crafts and other merchandise were available for purchase.
Screams of excitement fill the airwaves of the festival as kids experience the many fair rides. Amusements of America, who also provided many games at the festival for kids and parents to play as well, made the rides possible. There was a parade hosted that celebrates significant members of the Niagara County community, such as Police Departments, Firefighters, local high school sports and dance teams, Niagara University Athletics and more.
Loud splashes from the dunking booth caused many to curiously turn their heads. Farmers markets were also located throughout the festival. They sold fresh vegetables, pies and apples, breads and of course a lot of peaches. In fact, Bittner-Singer Orchards brought more than 10,000 peaches to the festival. Not only did they bring thousands of peaches, but they also brought their famous peach shortcake.
This event is the biggest event of the year for Niagara County residents, not only because of the rides, games and food but because of the many events. The festival simply found a way to please everyone. There was a cheerleading competition, 5K run, a Peach Queen contest, Fuzz and Blossom contest, and a peach taste off. There was music entertainment at the festival as well. The Tim Britt Band, Terry Buchwald, and 23 Skidoo featuring Dick O’Dell all performed throughout the weekend festival. The fireworks brightened up the festival, thanks to Zambelli Fireworks, one of the many sponsors of the festival.
There were dozens of sponsors that helped make the festival possible for its sixth century celebration. Overall, the Peach festival was in fact a fun-filled weekend! For those who were not in attendance for the 60th Annual Peach Festival, it is highly recommended that one look forward to the 61st festival next year.
Niagara Wire 