Fleetwood will kick off its 150th Anniversary celebration this month with a series of year-long community events designed to celebrate the borough’s rich past, present, and future, announced the Fleetwood Council of Community Organizations (FCCO).
The events begin on April 22 with the Fleetwood Pageant and culminate in December with the arrival of Santa – a Fleetwood tradition for over 50 years.
Other anniversary highlights include a grand Celebration Gala in August followed by a Celebration Parade and outdoor concert in September. The Gala will also serve as the world premiere of the award-winning documentary Finding Fleetwood. Narrated by 11-time Emmy Award winner Kathie Lee Gifford, the movie features dozens of residents, from their teens to their 90s, sharing memories of the place they call home.
The Gala is followed in September by a Celebration Parade and outdoor concert headlined by Grammy-nominated country music star Chuck Mead. A special 150th Closing Community Church Ceremonies will be held in the park in October before the arrival of Santa in December.
“We’ve got a great party planned,” said 150th Celebration Chairman and FCCO President Kelly- Ebeling Schaeffer. “The celebration begins this month and continues through December, with events for everyone, from the youngest to the oldest because we’re celebrating not just the past, but also the present and future of what makes Fleetwood such a special place to call home,” she added.
Other celebration events include the Memorial Day parade, ceremonies and celebration in Fleetwood Park, concerts in the park, a Legends of Fleetwood golf tournament at Moselem Springs Golf Course, Fleetwood Community Theater’s production of Footloose, a time capsule creation and dedication, and a dazzling fireworks display and homecoming celebration in Ray Bus Field.
“It’s incredibly gratifying to see so much support and excitement from our residents, businesses and civic organizations,” said Fleetwood Mayor Tammy Gore. “Having that sense of community, of home, of connection to one another is maybe more important today than ever. And Fleetwood has it in spades. I couldn’t be more happy or proud,” she added.
“I’ve seen a lot in my 70 years in Fleetwood,” said Bill Strause of the Fleetwood Historical Society. “Change is inevitable. But one thing that hasn’t changed around here is our sense of community pride, community engagement, and community compassion. Hands down, this is the best place to live in Berks County. And if you don’t believe me, come on out to these events and see for yourself,” he said.
A full list of events, including their time, location, and cost (if any), can be found at fleetwoodboro.com. For any additional information email: fleetwood150thcelebration@gmail.com
Event organizers also have a monthly email newsletter providing the latest information on events, including sponsorships and registrations. To subscribe, send an email to friendfwood@icloud.com.
