Transition an old festival to new leaders

How do you keep long-time community events and festivals alive? So many of you tell us how challenging it is finding and keeping volunteers, as well as keeping long time events alive with fewer people who want to do everything.

Like the Watermelon Festival at Cave City, Arkansas. It started in 1980 with a one-day event. Herschel Runsick grew melons for that first parade, and it grew slowly over time. Today it’s a three day festival drawing 10,000 to 15,000 attendees. Of course no one could have imagined that in 1980. 

I heard about it from Mayor Jonas Anderson, speaking on a panel at the Municipal League. He told us that the festival had been run “basically by a single couple” for years. 

The husband and wife realized they needed to pass it on, not just draft new volunteers to do it the same old way. I know that’s not always true or easy. To get to this point might take a difficult conversation or two. 

Knowing it was time for transition, here’s what Jonas did. He invited one friend to lunch, and they talked about who could help. They made a group of about 10 people to run the event, instead of just two. 

Since Jonas had worked as a traveling musician he got to lead the entertainment. And with about 9 other key players, they’ve kept the event going and innovating. 

When asked about his learning moments, Jonas said to be aware and don’t overdo things. 

“Don’t lose sight of why you’re doing the event,” Jonas said. “Focus on the community part.”

The festival itself isn’t the goal. Community is the goal. That’s Idea Friendly. 

He gathered his crowd, starting with just one. They built connections out to 10. And they all took small steps, each one doing part, along with lots of others involved in smaller ways, I’m sure. 

Your long-time events don’t have to die, but they sure can’t stay the same. Bring your Idea Friendly mindset and start with a lunch conversation.

Photo of the Cave City welcome sign, CC by Dale Miller via Flickr