Clinton Summerfest brings fun for all ages

Some of the many booths and vendors that you can visit at the Clinton Summerfest on June 2. Photos courtesy Deana Thomas.

As many as 70 tractors (and their owners) are expected to attend Saturday’s Summerfest at Tate Park in Clinton.

Looking for something to entertain the entire family next weekend? You might want to try taking the short drive down to Tate Park in Clinton and visit their Summerfest–you may see a lot of your Manchester neighbors there!

John Schiel, the co-chair of the antique tractor show at the Summerfest, is a lifelong resident of Bridgewater Township and a graduate of Manchester High School. He’s been on the Clinton Summerfest committee for six years now, ever since he discovered that he could attend a tractor show on his birthday one year.

“When I realized that this is a real low-cost event for the entire family, I decided to get more involved,” he says. “And the bonus is I get to drive my tractors there.”

In addition to the tractor show, which is expecting at least 60 entries, and will end up with a tractor parade through downtown Clinton at 3:30 pm, there will be plenty of entertainment for everyone in the family.

“We have a bounce house, face painting, kids carnival games, a kiddie tractor pull,” John adds. “And there will be vendors there selling everything from soap to new cars!”

Opening ceremonies will take place with a flag raising at 9 am; Pastor Eugene Blair from Emanuel UCC in Manchester will give the benediction and the day will begin. Throughout the day there will also be food vendors and musical entertainment, and at 12:30 pm the locally famous “Boyer the Magic Guy” will perform. Entry to the event is free and all food is reasonably priced for families to enjoy.

All monies raised by the Clinton Summerfest Committee–from sponsorships and booth fees–go into scholarships for local students. Last year, the organization was able to grant four $1,000 scholarships.

This is the ninth year for the event, masterminded by Clinton resident Basil Greenleaf and a small committee of helpers.

Come and support your Clinton neighbors and enjoy a family-friendly day.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.