The 2021 North Ridgeville Corn Festival was a hit!
“We were very pleased that we were able to have the Fest again,” said Founder and Director John Butkowski. “People really enjoyed themselves.”
Indeed, after seeing the 2020 Corn Fest cancelled because of Covid and a late start to planning this summer, guests were truly appreciative to once again take part in this community tradition. Even Friday night rains didn’t dampen spirits.
“I was surprised at the number of people on Bainbridge walking in the rain without an umbrella or raincoat, just to enjoy the food,” said Butkowski.
A few changes had to be made because of the Friday weather. The car show location was moved, the fireworks display was changed to Saturday night and the Friday night entertainment by Old Towne Players was shifted to a Saturday matinee performance.
Saturday turned out to be picture perfect weather day, however, and the fair welcomed large crowds all day and evening. Old Towne Players performances drew tremendous appreciation for North Ridgeville’s home-town talent, and the gala fireworks display sent one and all home happy.
Butkowski joined in the chorus of praise that was expressed in support of the Old Towne Theater productions. Broadway tunes, popular music and truly talented presentations marked the shows.
“We had to move the Friday entertainment to a Saturday matinee in addition to their regularly scheduled performance,” said Butkowksi, who lauded the showcase performances.
“The Theater is almost like an untapped secret,” said Butkowski. “A lot of people don’t know about the theater, but they have great talent through all age groups and all age groups were represented. We’ve been going there for years. I hope these shows got people more familiar with them.”
About the only thing missing from this year’s show were the amusement rides, which couldn’t be scheduled due to various complications. “But my kids didn’t mind,” said one Fest-goer. “They were just happy to have someplace to meet with their friends and hang out and have a good time.”
“I think some people missed the rides, but when you’re given lemons you make lemonade,” said Butkowski.
Indeed, the 2021 Corn Festival was a success by every measure and the Corn Festival committee, sponsors and vendors all deserve thanks for hosting this summer highlight the weekend of Aug. 13-15. See you next year!
The Corn Festival at a Glance
We had a big turnout for this our first post-COVID Parade there were 20 Trucks, 28 Cars, 13 Trucks with Trailers and more than 750 people. Thank you to all of you who joined the parade!
We had 18 Volunteers, the NR Jr. Committee Mascots & Members, The NR Police, Fire Department and Schools, J&P Customer Floor Covering, Worcester’s Power Equipment, Trailers & Pet Feed, The All-American Judges Association along with the MANY people who lined the streets to watch and cheer. Together we made it happen! THANK YOU ALL!
The 2021 Grande Parade WINNERS in the (14) categories are.
If you have won a Trophy and were not at the ceremony to receive it, please contact the Parade Chairman at 440-328-7420.
- Best of Parade – North Ridgeville Ranger Marching Band
- Mayor’s Trophy – North Ridgeville City Schools Cheer Leaders
- Junior Corps – Futuristics Baton & Drum Corps
- Juvenile Corps – Futuristics Baton & Drum Corps
- Color Guard – VFW Post 9871 Color Guard
- Bands – Lorain County 4-H Band
- Antique Vehicle – Lorain County Shrine & Fire Brigade
- Novelty Unit – The Wheelman
- Commercial Unit – Big Frog Custom T-Shirts
- Non-Commercial Unit – St. Peter Catholic School
- Animal Unit – North Ridgeville Kiwanis Club
- Great Corn Award – Carvana
- Chamber of Commerce Business – JAM Dance Academy
- Best Float – Oak Harbor Apple Festival