When heading east on Franklin Street in Uptown Centerville at the end of June, a familiar sight emerges. An array of chairs begins to line the street as people save their spots for what has become a highly anticipated event: the Centerville Washington Township Americana Festival 4th of July Parade.
What started back in 1972 as a small neighborhood celebration has grown into Ohio’s single largest one-day festival. It attracts more than 85,000 visitors featuring a large parade, more than 200 arts and craft vendors, 50+ food vendors and a wide range of activities that highlight the best of the Centerville and Washington Township community.
“The first festival featured a modest parade with children riding decorated bicycles and a few local organizations participating,” shares Keith Weiskittle, Executive Director of the Centerville Washington Township Americana Festival. “Over time, the festival expanded to include many events and attractions, such as arts and crafts exhibits, food vendors, live entertainment, children’s area, a car show and fireworks.”
Keith, who began working with the festival in 2017 as the parade chair, knows firsthand how an event of this magnitude requires the effort of many individuals. “I thoroughly enjoy collaborating with the city and the township and working alongside the dedicated volunteers and the community to put on this fantastic event. Their commitment is what makes our event successful year after year,” expresses Keith.
While the festival has continued to grow over the years, some traditions have remained the same. Many of these traditions center around the festival parade: from the chairs lining the side of Franklin Street to the community involvement. Each year a grand marshal is selected. This honor typically is bestowed upon a local individual or group who has made significant contributions to the community.
“This tradition not only adds a personal touch to the festivities but also recognizes and celebrates the achievements and dedication of community members,” states Keith. “This year our theme is “Kind and Helpful Hands” and the grand marshals are retiring School Resource Officers Deputy Gary Fulwiler from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and Officer Tracey Summers from the Centerville Police Department.”
Arts and crafts booths, food vendors and live entertainment have long been highlights of the festival. “The festival traditionally begins with live entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the night sky and providing a memorable start to the celebrations. These traditions, along with the strong sense of community involvement and patriotic spirit, have been key to the festival’s enduring appeal and success,” shares Keith.
The Americana Festival continues to be a cherished event where our community can feel a connection to the past and create memories to be cherished for years to come. “It is so heartwarming to see young families enjoying the festival again, seeing the smiles and excitement and to be able to gather again as a community to celebrate the Fourth of July. Our community provides such a wonderful backdrop for this amazing event,” remarks Keith.
For more information and to view maps and the activities schedule, visit AmericanaFestival.org.
Americana By the Numbers
The Americana Festival Street Fair features over 200 vendors occupying more than 250 booth spaces. In 2024 the street fair will feature vendors from nine states, including California, Florida, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Oklahoma, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio.
A total of $7,500 in scholarships are awarded to eight deserving local students across college, high school and middle school levels, along with a special community service award.
This year’s festival will feature 75 food vendors on July 4th–the largest number yet and a 50% increase. There will be 22 food vendors at the fireworks show on July 3, also a 50% growth from previous years. Come hungry!
The Americana 5K is one of the few races still offered in the Dayton area, attracting many people seeking a fun, friendly local race. Last year there were participants from 23 states, including Hawaii, New Mexico, California, Florida and both North and South Carolina.
The 2023 Americana 5K had an impressive 977 participants. This year they aim to cross the 1,000-runner mark. Put on your running or walking shoes and join the fun!
The Americana Festival Auto Show is a highlight of the event, showcasing over 150 entries of stunning classic and antique vehicles. This year the auto show is relocating to West Franklin Street, adjacent to the main entertainment stage and most of the festival's food trucks. “This strategic move supports the festival's growth and draws attention to the food and entertainment offerings now concentrated on West Franklin Street,” says Keith.
“It is so heartwarming to see young families enjoying the festival again…Our community provides such a wonderful backdrop for this amazing event.”