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The Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce held the eighth annual Camellia City Fest on Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the event didn’t disappoint.

The event, which drew several hundred people from Butler County and surrounding communities, featured a number of activities to keep children entertained, some live music for attendees of all ages, and a variety of booths from local businesses, religious organizations, crafters, and farmers.

For a newcomer to the city, an event like this one can serve as a great opportunity to meet new people, make new friends, and experience some of what Greenville has to offer, which is plentiful.

One of the many good things about living in a small community like Greenville is being able to partake in the many homegrown and homemade items local people produce. If someone wanted to spend a little bit of money on locally-produced honey, pickles, flavored pecans, or seasonings, City Fest made it possible – not only for the person who made them, but for the people who benefited from the hard work that went into producing it. 

There was also food available for those with a more hearty appetite, such as pulled pork sandwiches or nachos, all made by our friends and neighbors. 

Even Mother Nature assisted in helping make the event a success as she graciously assisted by clearing out a light, but cooling drizzle of rain. 

Chamber representatives and event organizers should pat themselves on the back for putting together a successful City Fest, but what’s the next step for future events?

We hope City Fest events in the future will bring out more vendors eager to sell their products and more people just as eager to support locally-owned farms, small businesses, and others who take the time to set up booths and be a part of the festivities.

Perhaps more importantly, the event will entice all community members to attend and mingle with individuals who might not be familiar with what living in Greenville and Butler County is like. 

Nothing brings the community together quite like music, fun, festivities, and friendly faces.

Well, except maybe a funnel cake … or two, and we hope we’re able to see those next year.