On Saturday, September 17, local vendors, organizations, businesses, performers and community members packed Michigan Avenue between Lincolnway and Noble Street in downtown La Porte for the 23rd Annual Sunflower Fair. With too many vendor tents to count, food trucks galore, live music, dozens of vintage cars, brightly colored bounce houses and more, the Sunflower Fair had something for everyone.
Having attended for the first time last year, Kathy Trevillian of The Farmer’s Daughter’s The Farmer’s Designs was happy to return and see how the event had grown even in just one year.
“This year is much busier than last year. Last year was not as busy, and I think the weather was not as nice. It’s the perfect day,” he said. “I came back this year because I want to support La Porte; I’m forever. I think it’s great when the community comes together.”
While attendees roamed freely through the fair, there were some events scheduled to enjoy. This included the Michiana Antique Car Club Antique Auto Show from 7:30 am to 12 pm, the Sunflower Contest from 11 am to 12 pm and the Rib Cook-Off from 10 am to 2 pm, which was sponsored by American Licorice Company.
Other event sponsors included American RENOLIT, NIPSCO and Visit Michigan City LaPorte.
“We have things like the rib contest, and last night was great with the concert down here,” said La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody. “What I love most is seeing our community and people from the surrounding area come to the Sunflower Fair. They think this is the place to be, which makes La Porte special. Seeing everyone together spending the day in the center of La Porte just makes my day.”
While Sunflower Fest focuses on fun, it also allowed important organizations to connect with the community. John Rochefort, vice president of the Michiana chapter of Guardians of the Children (GOC), welcomed the opportunity to raise awareness and educate about what GOC does.
GOC is a 501c3 organization made up of a loyal band of motorcycle enthusiasts who support and protect abused children. They get to know the kids through monthly events like bowling and pool parties before standing next to them in court to make them feel safe as they testify.
“We have members who live in La Porte who have been to Sunflower Fest before and thought it was a good opportunity to raise awareness about child abuse. We’re excited to spread the word. It’s a nice event.”
For more information about the Sunflower Fair, visit https://sunflowerfair.com/. For more information about the city of La Porte, visit https://www.cityoflaporte.com/.
