Coming off a successful radio auction this year, the Princeton Optimist Club now gearing up for the annual Black Patch Festival next month.
In a recent interview with WPKY, Club President George Kilgore said John and Melissa Earnest were chosen to serve as the grand marshals for this year’s Black Patch Parade because they have been very active in the community over the years.
click to download audioHe added those who are interested in participating in the Black Patch Parade do not have to register, and can just show up for the event that will begin at 5:00 Friday afternoon, September 8th. Parade participants need to be ready to line up by 4:30 that afternoon.
Last year, the Black Patch Festival had a record number of vendors with 116 set up downtown. They are still receiving vendor applications and, according to Kilgore, they need some time to determine where each vendor will be set up.
click to download audioThe festival kicks off Saturday morning with the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast from 7:00 to 10:00 in the basement of Ogden Methodist Church followed by a day filled with various activities for the family to enjoy.
click to download audioThis year, Kilgore said Roy Gene Rogers contacted several different individuals and clubs in order to provide the kids with free activities.
click to download audioAccording to Kilgore, live music will be returning to the Black Patch Festival again this year. The Black Patch Gospel Singing — organized by Bro. Wesley Curtis — will be held Saturday evening at 6:00 p.m. in the sanctuary at First Baptist Church.
He noted one change for this year’s festival is the performer of the Country Music Show that will be held at 6:00 Saturday night, September 9th.
click to download audioAnother change this year is Summer Slam will be a part of the festival, which is organized by HR Ministries and typically held in July.
click to download audioKilgore said the Black Patch Festival is a time for the community to come together and visit with each other.
A schedule of all the events on Saturday and Sunday can be found on the Black Patch Festival Facebook page.
