Editor's Note: This story has been updated to reflect Hampton Gardner also spoke during the festival. A full list of speakers can be found at https://www.scribd.com/document/407454635/1st-Annual-Decatur-Heritage-Fe....
Hundreds of Newton County residents flooded Tenth Avenue in Decatur Saturday as the first Decatur Heritage Festival offered fun, food and entertainment on the beautiful, although windy Spring day.
The festival had no shortage of things to do and see with political speeches by Newton County candidates such as Tyler McCaughn and Hampton Gardner candidates for Senate District 31, and Robert Holden, who is running for District 1 Constable, a bounce house, live music, pamphlets and fellowship from Decatur M.B. Church all available for residents to see and experience.
Delicious food was also a key component of the Heritage Festival, which boasted fish plates and corn nuggets, fresh tamales from Mama Joes and even Decatur Aldermen Michael Harris serving the community up some fresh sausage burgers.
Jabari Mapp, who organized and put on the festival, said he thought the first year went very well.
Mapp previously said his idea for the Heritage Festival was a place for residents to come together, reconnect with friends and neighbors and build a community spirit that worked to leave Decatur a better place for their children and grandchildren.
From first impression of the turnout Saturday, Mapp said he considered his festival a success.
“It turned out nice,” he said. “It’s windy though.”
The gusty wind, which threatened to topple tents and scatter pamphlets across the railroad tracks, was definitely a challenge, as more than one vendor could be seen picking up blown papers or searching heavy objects to weight down their tent.
“It’s not the best day,” Holden said.
However, he said, the festival was a great idea and the inclusion of political candidates was especially nice. Although the wind caused some trouble, he said he was grateful for the festival and the opportunity to speak to residents.
