FeedsWheelfest takes on ‘Galactic’ flair
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The annual Wayne Wheelfest returns to Goudy Park today, complete with a kiddie carnival and plenty of entertainment (remember to purchase your buttons). The event runs through the weekend, with two cars shows on Saturday and Sunday.It took a last minute replacement to ensure there was a carnival at the Wayne Wheelfest this year.
McDonagh Amusements, which had contracted to bring a small carnival to Goudy Park this weekend, canceled at the last minute, according to Kim Alexander, Wayne Parks and Recreation director.
“It was very disappointing, especially at this late hour,” she said.
The firm previously operated a large carnival and a small one, but have since consolidated operations, she said.
“They only carnival they had was the large carnival, and that’s not what we’re looking for,” she said.
She called Galactic Transit Authority, a firm that has operated the carnival at the Wheelfest before. They took on the festival. City Manager John Zech said the small carnival, which will be set up in Goudy Park, is geared toward younger children.
“It’s a family-oriented item,” he said. “They’ll have rides that will appeal to younger children.”
The event begins tonight at Goudy Park and continues throughout the weekend. New features have been added, like the Chili Cook-off that will take place from 3-7 p.m. on Saturday.
Gayle Rediske, who is coordinating the event, said that so far 14 individual cooks and six restaurants have signed up for the competition. The winning individual gets $500 in cash.
The entertainment follows the trend of national tribute acts, too, with headline entertainment performing songs popularized by artists like Bob Seger, Creedance Clearwater Revival, Neil Diamond, Patsy Cline and more. This year, to sit in the main entertainment area around the gazebo patrons will need to purchase a commemorative button. They’re on sale for $6 at places like The Acorn Shop, Al’s Friendly Market and the festival.
The buttons help pay for the headline entertainment, according to Alexander.
Jake’s Again will host a golf outing to benefit the Boundless Playground at Soroptomist Park, with a noon tee-time on Sunday.
Other popular events will return, including the Saturday morning Pet Show, put on by Goody’s Pet Supply, and the Vegas Tent.
Alexander said the festival committee should be commended for their work in planning the festival.
“They’ve all done a very good job in bringing a lot of fun activities to the festival,” she said.
CUTLINE: The annual Wayne Wheelfest returns to Goudy Park today, complete with a kiddie carnival and plenty of entertainment (remember to purchase your buttons). The event runs through the weekend, with two cars shows on Saturday and Sunday.
