Farmington Set to Welcome Back Founders Festival this Weekend

The highly-anticipated 60th edition of the Farmington Founders Festival is making a triumphant return to downtown Farmington this weekend, from July 18-20.

Last year, the event attracted a crowd of over 43,000 to the city, and with the simultaneous celebration of Farmington’s bicentennial, the attendance figures are forecasted to climb even higher this year.

Highlights of the Festival

The festival is expected to showcase a multitude of events that have become synonymous with past editions, including the iconic Farmington Founders Festival Parade, the Farmington Fido Fest, a 5K color run, a range of musical performances, a crafted kids’ area, and a market featuring local crafters.

Mayor Joe LaRussa described the festival as a truly multi-dimensional event, promising attractions for all ages and interests – “There’s evening-oriented things for adults. There’s family-driven things during the day. …There’s such a variety. There’s something for everybody.”

The Parade Through the Decades

The centerpiece of the Founders Festival is the Farmington Founders Festival Parade, scheduled to kick off on Grand River Avenue at 10 a.m. July 20.

This year, the parade takes on a historical twist, with each participating group tasked with representing a different decade, to showcase the city’s rich history and to mark the bicentennial celebrations.

Run, Music, and More

In addition to the parade, the festival offers a multitude of other activities. For fitness enthusiasts, the 5K Color Run is set to take place through Shiawassee Park and downtown at 9 a.m. on July 20.

The Farmington Fido Festival features astounding K-9 feats and runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on July 19 and 20 — a must-visit for any dog lover.

A Festival for the Kids

Kids are in for a treat as a dedicated area featuring bounce houses, foam parties, stage shows, and a special Lego sculpture will be set up from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m on July 19 and 20.

Local Crafters Market and Food

The Local Crafters Market, where you can find vintage decor, handmade consumables and furniture, will operate from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on July 19 and 20. Food trucks with a diverse culinary offering will be stationed nearby to fulfill all your festival food cravings.

Community Come Together

In essence, the Farmington Founders Festival serves not only as a source of enjoyment for the city’s residents but also acts as a major attraction for visitors. LaRussa notes, “The Founders Festival is a great adhesive for community fabric. We really have a chance for people to come together and reminisce in downtown Farmington. Visitors get a chance to see a small city center that they maybe didn’t know was there or hadn’t been to in a while.”

For more information about the festival, make sure to visit foundersfestival.com.