By Heather Clower
The Parsons Advocate
“When it started, it was really the brain child of Walt Ranalli, the owner of Sirianni’s,” stated Jessica Waldo, Executive Director of the Convention Visitors Bureau and board member of the Alpine Festival. Ranalli and other business owners throughout the area were looking for a way to draw crowds and experience the food and dining establishments throughout the Fall, which used to be a slow season for much of the Thomas and Davis area. “It’s just grown,” Waldo said of the event, which began as a one day event and extended to a three.
Each year the committee strives to add something new or improve upon what is on the schedule. The festival has always hosted a 5K/2K run and then the Tucker Community Foundation approached the board with the idea of Run For It. “The Alpine Festival gave over the race to the Foundation and let them “run with it” and really create the atmosphere it is today with that event,” she further explained.
Typically, a Fireman’s Parade would be put on Friday evening, Saturday is the Run For It by the Foundation, an Oktoberfest Beer Tent is hosted by the Chamber of Commerce and live music, Young Life runs the inflatable activities, and the car show and craft show is put on by the Alpine lodge. In addition, there is a duck race and golf tournament.
Waldo shared her concern for the entities and craft and food vendors who rely on events such as these as a form of fundraising and income for their businesses. “It’s their livelihood, their whole season has been cut,” she stated.
The nature of the golf tournament allowed that event to take place on Sunday, September 27. “We’re still allowed to do that,” Waldo proclaimed. The Run For It event will be taking a virtual approach with more information available by contacting the Tucker Community Foundation.
The Leaf Peepers Festival is always held the last full weekend of September and the goal is to be back on track in 2021. “We will be able to pick back up and do it,” confirmed Waldo. For anyone interested in the golf tournament or next year’s events, call the CVB at 304-259-5315.