The streets of Atlanta will be packed this weekend with tens of thousands of people. (File photo)
The population of Atlanta is approximately 760, but by the weekend this little northern Hamilton County town will see 60,000 to 100,000 visitors at the 52nd annual Atlanta New Earth Festival, which started in 1974.
The downtown district has changed over the years and businesses have come and gone, but the Atlanta New Earth Festival continues as Hamilton County’s largest and longest-running festival.
The Reporter had the opportunity to speak with event organizer Jennifer Farley about what visitors can expect at this year’s event.
“We estimate 600 vendors lining Atlanta’s streets,” said Farley, who also serves as the Town Clerk-Treasurer. “The town has three different areas it rents: Main Street, Dolles Park, and Broadway Street, but homeowners also get involved. This year we have extended booths on Broadway Street to accommodate more vendors.”
According to Farley, Main Street will be reserved for vendors offering handmade goods. There you will find artistic and unique items.
“On Broadway Street you will find antiques, collectibles, vintage and seasonal home décor, just to name a few,” Farley said. “Vintage and repurposed items are very big right now.”
There will also be Gatewood Farmers Market on Broadway Street offering fresh fruits and vegetables.
The New Earth Festival social media is handled by Annie Farley, about whom Jennifer Farley said, “Annie is the deputy clerk for Atlanta and co-organizer for the festival. Part of her job is handling all social media. She does an amazing job and I really could not do all this without her, especially in festival season.”
Farley emphasized the importance of the sponsors and volunteers who make this festival happen every year.
This year’s top sponsors are Commissioners Mark Heirbrandt and Christine Altman, Ace Scrap metal, Atlanta BP (the new gas station in town) Mid-Indiana Marine, Weihe Construction, Nickloy Albright Gordon & Siebe Attorneys-at-law, Endeavor Communications, Hamilton County Tourism, IU Health Tipton … just to name a few.
A big draw for Hamilton County visitors is the live entertainment.
“This year’s free entertainment is made possible by the sponsorship of Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt,” Farley said. “Commissioner Heirbrandt was one of the first sponsors of the festival and we appreciate his continued support.”
Annie Farley has the entertainment line up on social media.
“There is something for everyone!” she said. “We offer a FREE kid’s zone located in Dolles Park, bounce houses, and face painting. WIBC 93.1 will host their Saturday morning Home & Garden show at the festival. For extra excitement you can contact Nickel Plate Express to ride the train from Noblesville to the festival.”
Once again, the festival is also partnering with Good Samaritan Network (GSN) on a festival food drive. They will have several barrels around the festival for donations. You can also give by scanning the QR code at the festival or right now by going to gsnlive.kindful.com.
County Commissioner Christine Altman along with IU Health Tipton is sponsoring the public safety health awareness area, which will offer a variety of interactive learning experiences. There will be a fire safety trailer offering kids the opportunity to learn how to stay safe around fire. Agencies including the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Indiana State Police, P.A.I.D., Hamilton County Emergency Management, and others will be present to help teach health and safety to the next generation.
Jennifer Farley especially thanked the Arcadia Police Department, Chief Carter, and the Jackson Township Fire Department, as well as Atlanta town officials, the Street/Utility Department, and a few faithful residents for all they do to help make the Atlanta New Earth Festival a success.
“We are a very blessed community!” she said.
On Sept. 27 and 28, the Atlanta New Earth Festival has plenty to offer. Visit AtlantaIndiana.com for more information.
