By Shawn Nowlin
For strawberry lovers throughout the Roanoke Valley and beyond, Elmwood Park was the perfect place to be last weekend.
The Annual Strawberry Festival, a major fundraiser for the Community School that serves students in preschool through middle school, is now in its 46th year. Starting on May 1, more than 19,000 people of all ages embarked on the two-day strawberry extravaganza.
While indulging in the shortcakes and chocolate strawberries, attendees also checked out the artisans and unique products that were offered. Various acts graced the stage to display their talents, too.
Each spring, a combination of Community School students, parents, alumni and volunteers put on the festival. Businesses are welcome to become sponsors.
“This is the highlight of our year. It’s our biggest fundraiser for the school. And honestly, it’s the most fun to see all involved volunteering to make the festival a success,” said a spokesperson.
As usual, thousands of strawberries and shortcakes were prepared before people showed up. While free to attend, participants were encouraged to purchase dessert tickets in advance.
This year included a pop-up event at Crystal Spring Grocery last Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
With a new shirt in one hand and some strawberries in the other, first-time attendee Diamond Williams says the festival was everything she heard and more. “People have different reasons for showing up to this event,” Williams said. “For me, it was to see what all the hype was about. I was beyond impressed with everything, from start to finish. “
This year’s festival happened to align with Kevin Bradshaw’s wedding anniversary. “Because my wife loves chocolate and strawberries, this was a no-brainer. Even after 19 years together, she still appreciates the small things. I made sure to take several pictures to capture the moment,” he said.
What makes the annual strawberry festival something Chance Jackson looks forward to every year goes beyond the food. It’s also about the community camaraderie and supporting a great cause.
“People love to be outdoors, especially around this time of the year,” Jackson said. “Who doesn’t love strawberries? To be part of something like this and give back is just awesome. So many have benefitted from this festival over the years, including my family.”
Virginia Living Magazine has called the event one of “Southwest Virginia’s Best Festivals.”
When it returns next year, Dominique Fisher says that she will be there with her family. “Since the festival only happens once a year, I try to partake in it every spring. I encourage everyone to experience this at least once,” Fisher said. “It is so much fun, and it never disappoints.”
For the most up-to-date information, visit strawberryfestivalroanoke.org.
