Rain may have wiped out Saturday’s Freedom Fest before the main band performance and fireworks, but we hope that it will not dampen enthusiasm for continuing to grow this event.
Organizers had anticipated crowds of up to 5,000, but Mother Nature cannot be controlled, only planned for and reacted to as well as the circumstances allow. For one thing, around the Fourth of July in Mississippi the problem is more often drought and grass fires sparked by cigarettes thrown from cars during ultra-dry conditions than excessive rain and flooding. It’s unlikely such a problem will happen again at this time of year.
Festivals play a vital role to the cultural life of a community. They bring people together to work toward a common cause, which creates strong bonds and relationships that carry benefits far beyond just the day of the event. They also draw in new people to see the town and leave a positive impression to those visitors about the area’s vitality.
Freedom Fest has emerged as a key activity in that regard for Columbia, and we hope to continue to see it thrive and grow in future years — regardless of what obstacles the weather throws our way.
— Charlie Smith
