They’re sweet. They’re succulent. And they’ve got a whole weekend to shine in downtown Leonard.
It’s none other than the 55th Annual Leonard Strawberry Festival, sponsored by the Addison Township Firefighter’s Association, which will take place on Saturday, July 21.
All the fun begins with a Friday night kick-off dinner in downtown Leonard on July 20 catered by The Lakeville Inn
From 5 p.m.-8 p.m., indulge yourself with hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos or a pulled pork sandwich while listening to the finalist of the karaoke contest at 5:30 p.m.
The day of the festival is filled with various activities any family would enjoy, beginning with a yummy pancake breakfast at the Leonard United Methodist Church from 8 a.m.-10:30 a.m. followed by ice cream sundaes served at the Fire Hall.
Strawberry bake-off items must be turned in at Rowland Hall by 11 a.m. the day of the festival.
The Addison Lion’s Club car show, held at Cooper Standard Automotive, will run from 10:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Don’t miss the parade at Noon, featuring Grand Marshalls Edward Porter, Eleanor Hamilton, Ann Schlusler, Mary Sue Sutherby, Helen Terry, all of Leonard, and Lake Orion resident Marge McCallum.
What’s special about the individuals chosen as Grand Marshall is that Porter is the only remaining fireman from the original Leonard Fire Department and the women are the widows of the original firemen. They will be presented with a special surprise at the parade.
The parade’s Special Person will be Leonard resident Marie Spezia, who celebrated her 100th birthday on April 9 of this year.
After the parade, enjoy train rides, moonwalks, a petting farm courtesy of Upland Hills, magic shows, arts and crafts and listening to bands like HaulinEllis and 3rd Time’s the Charm. The winners of the karaoke contest perform at 4 p.m.
Bring the kids. Bring your sunscreen. But most importantly, bring a hefty appetite and fill up on some tasty strawberry sundaes!
For a complete schedule and more information on the Strawberry Festival, see the ad below or visit their website, www.strawberryfest.net.