For the first time since early 2020, things felt like normal thanks to the annual Loose Caboose Festival, sponsored by the Newton Chamber of Commerce.
While this might not be the largest crowd we’ve ever seen at a Loose Caboose Festival, it was certainly a big crowd under the circumstance.
First of all, this was the first festival that has been held in Newton County since the shutdown began last March. In fact, the shutdown began with the cancellation of last year’s Loose Caboose Festival just days after major events nationwide were canceled.
Some were still probably concerned about getting out in public, but there were plenty of people who just wanted to get out and have fun.
It also helped the feeling of Newton lifting the mask mandate in time for the festival, as the city left it up to the people to decide if they wanted to wear masks. Some did, some didn’t.
One of the biggest hurdles was the weather. Forecasts were very concerning, as the area was under a moderate risk of severe weather on Friday. We were concerned that strong winds and a possible tornado could affect the festival, but thankfully, none of that happened. And the rain began to end about 7 a.m., which was the time the registration began.
It was a huge success. Thanks to all of the volunteers and sponsors who made this happen. Let’s do it again real soon, maybe with Union Day.
