REEDLEY – The 59th Annual Reedley Fiesta is coming and it’s bringing the 80s with it. Or, as Jeff Spicoli from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” would say, “It’s going to be totally awesome.”
The theme of this year’s Fiesta is “Back to the 80s,” which is not too strange, given the popularity of retro shows such as “Stranger Things.” The Fiesta takes place on Oct. 11 and 12. Erik Valencia, president and C.E.O. of the Reedley Chamber of Commerce, said that coming up with the theme each year is a collaborative effort.
“We (at the Chamber) think about what would be interesting, creative,” he said.
This year’s grand marshal is Danny Jimenez – Mr. Reedley. Reedley Police Chief Jose Garza is chairman of the parade. Valencia said the Chamber begins planning in July for the October event. He said this, too, is a collaborative effort.
“There is a Fiesta committee. We also receive assistance from the Rotary Club, Kings Canyon and others,” said Valencia.
The Rotary Club selects the parade chairman; the Lion’s Club selects the king and queen. This year’s royal couple is Dr. Lawrence (Larry) Wilder and Mrs. Shirley Wilder.
Fiesta festivities begin Oct. 10 when the Reedley Fire Department hosts its annual open house. From 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., families can meet firefighters, watch live rescue demonstrations, view fire equipment displays and participate in fire safety classes. Food and drinks will be available.
Sierra View Homes plays host to the always-popular Diaper Derby on Oct. 11. The derby begins at 10 a.m. (with registration starting at 9:45 a.m.). Infants aged 6 to 12 months who have yet to take their first step may participate. Cash prizes will be awarded. (Note: betting on toddlers is frowned upon, though it may not be against the law.)
PIONEER PARK LINEUP
On Oct. 11, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Pioneer Park plays host to craft vendors, information booths and entertainment. Adults 21 and over will have the opportunity to chill in a beer and wine garden hosted by The Wakehouse. Olds Cool will pump out 80s hits from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Fiesta king and queen crowning ceremony takes place at 6:45 p.m. at the bandshell.
The festivities resume at 9 a.m. on Oct. 12. The Reedley Community Band performs at noon. The signature event, the Fiesta Parade, takes place Oct. 12 at 10 a.m. The Rotary Club will direct the parade, which takes place on G Street, with Grand Marshal Danny Jimenez at the head of festivities.
Other events include the Gnardog Fiesta Walk/Run that starts Oct. 12 at 6:15 a.m. The run starts at 10th and G Streets. Runners/walkers can register online or in person on the morning of the race.
The Fiesta Pancake Breakfast gets underway at 6 a.m. on Oct. 12 at the Reedley Opera House. Folks can get their pancakes on until 10 a.m.
The Fiesta Frog Jump springs into action on Oct. 12. The aerial amphibians will take flight in front of the Reedley Police Station at noon.
Lastly, this year’s Children’s Artwork Display features 80s-themed art from local students. Paintings, etc. will be featured in downtown storefront windows throughout the Fiesta weekend.
For more information, visit www.reedleychamber.com/events.
