Freedom Fest On The Causeway

Celebration taking place along Croton Pond
 
In the spirit of a long history of epic Independence Day observations in the patriotic community of Croton and following a one year sabbatical due to causeway construction, Freedom Fest returns to bring a celebratory spirit to the Pond.
 
N3 posed a few questions the River Country Chamber Executive Director Colleen Lynema to gather a little info on the upcoming event to be held Saturday July 8th.
 
N3-What can folks expect from the event?

CL-GREAT MUSIC! Mane Street Band a local favorite  GREAT FOOD! Old Iron will have BBQ and DD MacGee's Grill  will be on hand with hot dogs & hamburgers (still looking for a great popcorn and/or cotton candy vendor).   GOOD STUFF TO DRINK! We are doing a double sided beer tent this year with Local Craft Beers & for the folks who have more traditional beer tastes we will have the Bud, Bud Light varieties provided to the Chamber by Tyler Sales.  There will also be lemonade available compliments of Old Orchard.  There are still some opportunities for street vendors and those interested can please call or email the Chamber Office 231.652.3068 or [email protected].

N3-This is the second time the Chamber has done FF  (causeway construction issues last year). How will this year be different from the first?
 
CL-After our inaugural year  we received great feedback from the participants and the Croton residents on how to make this event even better.  This has resulted in a smaller footprint,  leaving room for those who don't want to be in the fenced in CauseWay Freedom Festival Event area but still want to enjoy the fireworks from the Causeway as well as the pedestrian traffic bypass along The Edge trail.
We have also met  with local business owners on ways to include them in this years event. As in the past, bring your chair, blanket, family & friends, we have food, beverages (alcoholic & non) and great music.  This year the committee has committed part of the proceeds from the event to go to the 2018 Fireworks Committee.  

N3 How much is it to get in and can I bring a cooler with my own adult beverages?
 
CL- Freedom Fest is free. State regulations prohibit bringing in beverages. All adults over 21 can obtain a wristband to purchase beer. Wristbands will be provided when id's have been checked and beer tent tokens can being purchased. All street vendors will take cash.
 
N3-Where do I park and what time will the causeway be closed?
 
CL-Parking in Croton for the fireworks, the parade and this event is very limited.  In the past it has been anywhere you can find it, but make sure that it isn't against the law or on private property. If you don’t mind a little walk before the festivities Conklin Park near the fire station  or the DuChemin parks near Croton Dam may have available spaces  Please be respectful of private property.  The causeway will close to thru traffic for the Walter F. Howarth, Croton American Legion Post #381 4th of July Parade from 11:30 am - 1:30 pm and again at 6:00 pm (30 minutes sooner than past years per Township Supervisor Morgan Heinzman) for event set-up and stay closed until no later than midnight.  The Freedom Fest on the CauseWay will be open at 6:30pm, with music beginning shortly after.

N3-Why should folks go?
 
CL-It's fun; whether you watch  with us and enjoy Freedom Fest on the CauseWay, put your boat in and enjoy them on the water or find a spot from one of the high banks along the Croton Pond, Croton Township has amazing fireworks! The River Country Chamber, the Freedom Fest on the CauseWay Committee and event sponsors: Fremont Area Community Foundation, Hilltop General Store, Old Orchard, Tyler Sales and Independent Bank look forward to a being able to support the Fireworks Committee in their 2018 fundraising efforts.  
 
A CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS!!

Freedom Fest On The Causeway is in need of volunteers to help make the event a success. Join in because this a very cool way to get to know people, reacquaint with old friends or just do a little something for your community. Those signing up to help by July 5th will be getting a great looking t-shirt announcing to all how you helped make this event a memorable one. Contact the Chamber office at 231.652.3068 or [email protected].
 

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