Fun in the sun: 6 unique reasons to attend a summer festival
(BPT) - There’s nothing better than packing up the car and hitting the open road to explore all the wacky wonders that summer has to offer. If you’re looking for the perfect family-friendly destination consider one of the many summer festivals that take place each year.
With people visiting carnivals, fairs and festivals about 500 million times annually, it’s clear these outdoor events are great destinations for family fun. Curious what garlic-flavored ice cream tastes like? Interested in participating in a Duck Tape fashion show? If so, there’s a unique summer festival to get you and the family going this season.
Parades with passion
Whether a spectator or participant, there’s nothing quite like a parade. But beyond the traditional fire trucks and bands, experience one of many unique events like California's Lobsterdog Pet Parade, Atlanta’s Hogwarts Parade or Ohio’s Annual Avon Heritage Duck Tape Festival Parade.
Fascinating fair fare
Festivals are often known for their fabulous fried favorites. This year, get out of your comfort zone and try something truly different like the Iowa State Fair’s famous hot beef sundae or the State Fair of Texas’ deep-fried butter balls. Then, wash down with a refreshing lemon shake-up.
Out-of-the-ordinary kids activities
Tired of hearing “I’m bored” from the kiddos? Summer festivals have tons of activities to keep kids busy. From a Pickle Treasure Hunt at the North Carolina Pickle Festival or kite making at the Rogallo Kite Festival, to crafts and carnival rides, festivals are bustling with family-fun favorites!
Weird and wacky wonders
Tired of your current surroundings? Venture to a festival where you’ll likely see something interesting. From the world’s largest catsup bottle at the, you guessed it, World’s Largest Catsup Bottle Festival, to a 600-pound cow carved from butter at the Iowa State Fair, you never know what you’ll find.
Music to your ears
Ranging from national artists to local favorites, many summer festivals offer pleasing tunes to entertain. But don’t think you’ll always find talent on a main stage. The Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival allows hundreds of divers and snorkelers each year to enjoy recorded music piped underwater in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary off Big Pine Key.
Dressing the part
Who doesn’t love an excuse to get dressed up? Themed-festival goers often come decked out in full garb to celebrate the occasion. The Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa welcomes buccaneers of all ages, while fans of the Annual Avon Heritage Duck Tape Festival can be found dressed head to toe in duct tape. Now, that’s a fashion statement that’ll “stick” around.