TroyFest kicks off, heads into weekend
Published 3:00 am Wednesday, April 25, 2018
- Little Emory Drinkard was tapped to conduct the Southeast Alabama Community Band on one of John Philip Sousa’s famous marches. The band followed her lead and didn’t miss a beat.
TroyFest 2018, a premier art and craft show, officially kicked off Monday night with concerts on the square in downtown Troy.
The Kickoff event got underway with a patriotic concert by the Southeast Alabama Community Band that featured marches including John Philip Sousa favorites. POPulus, Troy University’s popular music ensemble made up of students in the university’s Music Industry Program, took the stage around 8 p.m. The ensemble introduced many pop pieces, including several Troy students.
Shelia Jackson, Troy tourism and pubic relations director, said the concerts offered a night of music, fun and fellowship.
“Community participation was outstanding,” Jackson said. “People of all ages came out to enjoy and appreciate the musical talent of members of the older and younger generations. Playing music is something that can be enjoyed throughout life and you never get too old to enjoy listening.”
Jackson expressed appreciation to the musicians, all of those who attended the concerts and to those who worked behind the scenes to make the TroyFest Kick-Off such a great success.
Next up is TroyFest, a celebration of the arts, in downtown Troy on Saturday and Sunday.
TroyFest is the premier Fine Art and Craft Festival for the Central Alabama Regional. The festival is held annually in memory of Troy artist Jean Lake.
“TroyFest will welcome more than 85 artists to this year’s festival,” said Morgan Drinkard, an event coordinator. “ We have artists from Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia, Illinois, and Florida traveling to Troy for TroyFest 2018, so it will be a very exciting show.”
Drinkard said festival entertainment will begin Saturday morning on the TroyCable Entertainment Stage and there will be a great selection of crafts in the Troy Messenger Kids Corner.
“It’s wonderful to see how the festival has grown over the years and the people who make visiting TroyFest a family tradition,” Drinkard said. “Our TroyFest vendors exhibit handmade items and quality pieces of art and craftsmanship. TroyFest is a great place to find one of a kind Mother’s Day presents, wedding gifts and artwork for your home.”
Personally, Drinkard said she loves looking at her TroyFest collection and remembering which artist she purchased the item from and the story behind the piece.
Drinkard said TroyFest is a place where memories are made and purchases are tangible reminders of the good times shared with family and friends on an April weekend around the square.
TroyFest hours are from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free.