The Auburn Cornfest, Bay County's quintessential summer event, has made its anticipated return to its traditional spot in Auburn after being hosted in Midland County last year. The 52nd annual celebration, organized by the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, kicked off on Wednesday and will run through Sunday, offering an array of activities for all age groups, including music, food vendors, carnival rides, and contests.
After a two-year hiatus from its usual location due to legal wrangling, festivities resumed much to the delight of the community and organizers. "We’re so excited to be here. All week we’ve been setting up, and the community is getting really excited. There’s a lot of hype online, and we’re just so happy to be back," Auburn Cornfest co-chairperson Samantha Kunz told WNEM in their coverage of the event. The return to Auburn is particularly meaningful to residents who view the festival as an anchor in their community.
Amidst the legal disputes, a judge granted permission for the festival to be held at its original grounds, leading to an enhanced sense of anticipation for the corn celebration's return. "We are so excited here in Auburn to have the Cornfest back and to have it for the residents. And it's bigger and better than it's ever been," Kathy Kilbourn of the Auburn Chamber of Commerce expressed to ABC12.
Key highlights of this year's Cornfest include a veterans’ appreciation night with fireworks, a country music themed evening, and a family fun day packed with interactive activities for children. The festival will close on Sunday with polka music, a parade, and a classic car cruise supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation. According to MLive, there will also be live performances from various bands across genres, including the Steve Drzewicki Band for the polka event.
Organizers have also taken into account the surrounding controversy from previous years by increasing security measures. This precaution ensures attendees can enjoy the Cornfest's offerings in a safe and welcoming environment.
