When the Clovis Chamber of Commerce presented the 37th annual ClovisFest on Pollasky Avenue, over 70,000 people were drawn to the event, which ranked as the second largest arts and crafts fair in the Central Valley, and occurred from Sept. 17-18.
The event became a highlight over the weekend, showcasing over 250 vendors peddling foods, crafts and art. In addition, ClovisFest offered entertainment in the form of a full carnival, an All Valley Car Show, live bands and hot air balloons.
ClovisFest commenced with the launching of hot air balloons, which drew crowds to the Clovis Rodeo Grounds as early at 6 a.m. Spectators were encouraged to watch numerous balloons inflate and lift off with their crew and pilot.
Freshman Jennifer Smith says she enjoyed all four times attending ClovisFest.
“I went to ClovisFest because I live just a block away,” Smith said. “I had a lot of fun just walking around and seeing everything. The balloons were the best part.”
Just like Smith, Clovis resident Rich Sandoval enjoyed watching the multicolored balloons fill the sky with his family.
“We hear about it every year, and on the radio,” said Sandoval. “I liked it; it’s exciting and the kids have a lot of fun looking at them too. They’re more into donuts right now, so I don’t think they’re as into it as I am.”
According to balloonist Marvin Wilson, the hot air balloons once again proved to be a great attraction for all crowds.
“It’s fun for all of us,” said Wilson. “It’s just a big gathering for people enthusiastic about the hot air balloons. Everybody has a good time. The only difference between hot air balloons and jets is the pilot can’t steer, so the outcome is always interesting. People chase us to see how we land the balloon.”
Across the street, vendors seized the opportunity to showcase their unique items or foods to a large assembly of guests. No different from others, Dell Ellis, owner of Glory Jeanne Honey, returned with his business for his second time at ClovisFest.
“We sell various types of honey and spices that come from the mountain ranges and the [Central] Valley,” said Ellis. “We did well; that’s why a lot of people come back. This [ClovisFest] is early; it just started and it’s packed.”
Due to the event’s friendly environment, a salesman from The Jerky Hut, Gilbert McAllister, enjoyed his first year working at ClovisFest, he says.
“This is my first year selling for this company,” McAllister said. “I enjoy it so far; it’s a good atmosphere and crowd. It’s a really nice place with a lot of families out and nice weather. [There is] a lot of attendance and it’s still kind of early, so it should pick up by the afternoon.”
Larry Soto, an antique car owner, proudly displayed his 1935 Ford at the All Valley Car Show.
“This is my first car show here, but I’ve been doing it for the past three years,” Soto said. “I took the car apart, restored it and got it to the way I wanted it to look. I enjoy ClovisFest so far, and my family is out here too.”
Aside from vendors, the fair brings customers and sales along with local stores. According to local antique store dealer Barbara Jones, sales tend to increase at her store with events such as ClovisFest.
“We sell antiques and collectibles from at least 35 different dealers,” said Jones. “We’ve been here thirty years and I have been in this store for twenty five years. A lot of people come to see our store for fun, and we get more business out of it than usual.”
For more information on ClovisFest, read the Sept. 22, 2010 article, ClovisFest supports community businesses.
For more news, read the Sept. 20 article, BREAKING: Student portraits, ID cards available for pick-up