HARDWICK— On Friday, May 23, at Atkins Field from 3 to 10 p.m., Springfest will kick off with a Hardwick Farmers Market with food vendors, followed by an evening concert and dance party at the Atkins Pavilion. The grand marshal reception will be held at the Hardwick Town House.
On Saturday, May 24, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the parade and morning activities will be followed by a street fair throughout downtown Hardwick with music, food, performances, rides, games, contests, vendors, and different activities hosted by local groups and families. The festivities will conclude with players and spectators gathering at the Hardwick Elementary ball field for the annual Tristan Southworth Memorial Day Classic baseball game.
Since 1950, Springfest has been Hardwick’s biggest annual community celebration. Originally started as the Tulip Festival (the Dutch ambassador once attended), Springfest has evolved over its long history. The constant centerpieces have been the parade, with spectators lining the streets of downtown Hardwick, and Memorial Day observances.
The Hardwick Kiwanis Club has spearheaded Springfest since its inception; however, it has always been a community effort involving local organizations, businesses, vendors, artists, schools, and residents. The Hardwick Downtown Partnership, The Civic Standard, Center for an Agricultural Economy, American Legion, Jeudevine Memorial Library, and the Town of Hardwick now jointly host the event with the Kiwanis Club.
Jan Mueller
