On Saturday, October 15th, locals came together to enjoy Clifton Main Street’s 21st Annual FallFest. Crowds milled through downtown Clifton listening to live music and checking out a wide variety of booths. Over the last two years, a marked shift has been noted in the types of vendors present. While non-profit organizations made up over 20% of the booths this year, the majority of retail vendors were local artists, crafters, and businesses.
Clifton Main Street Director Angela Smith credits the shift to a thoughtful approach to vendor fees. By offering discounts to locals, Smith has cultivated a feeling of community and appreciation for creativity and craftsmanship. Every imaginable medium was represented by the many local artists in attendance, from wood, to ceramics and textiles.
Journey cover band ESCAPE performed on the outdoor stage in the warm afternoon as nine teams competed in cornhole and basketball tournaments. Throughout the day attendees and vendors enjoyed performances by locals Markus Miller, Chad Holt & The Chizlers, Rise & Shine Dance, the Clifton High School Jazz Band, and the Clifton Elementary School Honors Choir. The Karem Cowboys, a subgroup of the Waco Karem Shriners, put on a fun gun fight performance and could be seen between shows strolling the streets in full get-up. For more festival fun, the unicyclist and juggler Mark Riggs was in attendance again this year.
First place in the cornhole tournament went to Daniel Miller & Donavan Brown, with Judd L. & Payton Casarez coming in second, and Blitzen & Dallas Anderson taking third. First place in the basketball tournament went to Champs, with Crew League coming in second, and DMs coming in third.
Local non-profit organizations provided everything from free children’s vision screening to flu vaccines as well as holding fundraisers and hosting interactive exhibits.
The event was a great success and ran smoothly thanks to Clifton Main Street’s thoughtful organization, their dedicated volunteers, City Staff, and their generous sponsors.
