Fairbury residents enjoyed a day at Marsh Park Saturday for the city’s Freedom Festival.
A similar event was held a year ago when the park was re-dedicated.
“Everybody had a lot of fun that day so we decided to repeat it again this year but we gave it a new name,” explained Dale Maley with the Fairbury Improvement Group.
Volunteer Mary Catherine Carter said they came up with the name since the event took place near the Fourth of July. They decided not to hold it on Independence Day since nearby towns like Sibley and Chenoa already have events.
“We need to be pleased and proud of our country,” Carter said.
Various community groups such as the VFW Auxiliary, Odd Fellows, Lions Club and Rebekahs served food while old cars and tractors were displayed. Live music performances were given by Dominique Stevenson, Living Water and the Twin Cities Brass Quintet.
“I’m trying to stay away from business owners,” Carter explained. “I want non-profit organizations to have a chance to fund raise and be a part of it.”
Children in attendance had a chance to play with wooden toys created by Maley and participate in games from the American Red Cross and Building Future Leaders. The Fairbury Echoes Museum even had memorabilia on display.
The events started in the morning with an opening prayer from Father Scott Archer of St. Andrew Catholic Church followed by remarks from Alderman Steve Endres and Maley.
