While it’s no small task, the community group of Whittier Mill Village has built a wildly successful and fun annual fall family festival: Parktoberfest. What started out as a neighborhood potluck now attracts a minimum of three bands, more than 650 adults, and an estimated 200 children to the park, raising a net of about $10k which goes towards park improvements and maintenance.
Just half of the funds raised at Parktoberfest come from ticket sales ($10/adult entry, $25/ adult entry + “beer band” and $5/kids). The other major profit generator is the event’s silent auction; all items in the auction (local services, art, experiences, goods) are donated, meaning that 100% of the $5,000 profits goes to the park. On top of event planning itself, the solicitation of auction items is a lot of work – Parktoberfest Planning Committee members contact potential donors via email, phone calls and going door-to-door to businesses, months in advance.
Community festivals like Parktoberfest, while a lot of effort to plan, pay off in a big way! Not only is net revenue for the park growing each year as awareness of the festival rises, but the festival itself functions as a community pride and culture building event. Neighbors look forward to gathering annually in their community park while celebrating the season and getting to know each other better.
Details:
Community – Whittier Mill Village
Park – Whittier Mill Park
Class – Events
Funds Raised – $10,000
Contact – Melissa Moore
Email – melissa.l.moore@gmail.com
Of note: Planning a community festival takes time, so you must plan ahead and get help! Applications for permits need to be submitted at least 90 days in advance. You also need plenty of time to advertise to get the turnout you desire.
PARKTOBERFEST 2015
Parktoberfest 2015 at Whittier Mill Park is happening on Saturday, October 17th from 3 – 10 p.m. Visit their website for all the details!