Calvert City celebrated the 150th year of the city that was incorporated in 1871 – the Sesquicentennial Ameribration covered four days – July 1-4. Just over 2,500 in population, the small city celebrated in a big way.
Events kicked off on Thursday with the Sesquicentennial Ball, a sold out event revived from the last one held in 1971 complete with 1800’s attire worn by attendees and music provided by Paducah-based Jazz Patrol .
Friday evening was filled with music from the Memorial Park Amphitheater and carnival rides, arts and crafts and food trucks throughout Memorial Park.
Saturday and Sunday were full days of music, rides, arts and crafts and food trucks along with several other special events that included a free Veteran’s Brunch, 9-hole Golf Scramble, 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament, World-Class Beard Competition, Yankee Doodle Dandy Diaper Dash and the Ameribration Pageant winners recognition.
The music throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday afternoon was big line up of local and nationally known artists that included Jeffrey Steele and Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
One of the most impressive displays was held in the Calvert City Civic Center. A documentary of Calvert City was shown on loop throughout Saturday and Sunday along with a walk through the history of the city starting with the 1800’s through current time.
Sunday evening wrapped up the celebration with the traditional parade down Fifth Avenue followed by the area’s best fireworks display.
“When we first starting planning this almost two years ago, along with Mayor Lynn Jones, I wasn’t new to Calvert City but I was new to working in Calvert City”, said Blair Travis, Director of Marketing and Business Development on WCBL’s Coffee Call last week. “I have been blown away with how many stepped up to help.”
Along with all the many volunteers that have made this event a reality, Blair especially recognized Bobbie Foust – who was very involved in the city’s Centennial celebration 50 years ago – and her knowledge of the history of Calvert City.
