For centuries, philosophers have pondered the question — is there life after Pilgrimage? Yes, the pilgrims have moved on. They probably imagine that Columbus quickly converts to a sleepy village, only to awaken next spring when the travelers return.
Could anything be more wrong?
We have barely had a moment to hang up our hoop skirts and put the Civil War stories to rest. Now is the time to click our heels together and re-join the year 2010.
There are few events more enjoyable than the Market Street Festival. It is a two-day experience, with fun for every member of the family.
Friday night, May 7, features a concert downtown under the stars, starring local favorite Come On Go With Us and, from the Big Easy, Big Sam”s Funky Nation.
Don”t forget your lawn chairs, but leave those coolers at home. Tickets are now on sale, $10 each at Main Street Columbus.
Market Street Festival features tons of fun for the little ones in your group. With hands-on crafts, rides and costumed characters, you may have trouble prying them from the kids” activities.
But, do try. Hundreds of vendors, food booths and 20 musical acts lure with their siren song. Try, too, to remember the Saturday night performance. It begins at 6:30 p.m., when Stagolee, Jamie Davis and Soul Gravy and Blue Mountain take the stage for a triple-threat, free show.
To learn more, about these offerings as well as the 5K run and softball tournament, go to www.marketstreetfestival.com.
A moveable feast
There is so much going on next weekend that the ladies of St. Paul”s Episcopal Church have used their awesome powers to manipulate the calendar. The historic Eight O” May fundraiser will take place Friday, May 7.
Don”t you know of this event? Well, where have you been since 1865?
The story goes that, soon after emancipation, the women of the congregation gathered a few chickens and available spices to concoct a meal of the best chicken salad ever. It was a bitter-sweet celebration, as so many soldiers were still far from home.
The modern-day interpretation of their menu, along with some great barbecue, will be available at St. Paul”s on College Street, from 11 a.m. until about 2 p.m. This year, because of renovations to the church, takeout plates (only) will be available, for $8. Quarts of the goodies, packed to go, will be offered as well.
You will probably want to learn the whole history and explanation of Eight O” May, affectionately known as “Ada Mae.” If so, then pick up Sylvia Higginbotham”s new book about Friendship Cemetery. Chapter five gives you the complete story, and the once-secret recipe of this very special chicken salad. Sylvia”s book is available at the Tennessee Williams Welcome Center, temporarily housed at 309 Main St., during restoration.
So, rest up this week, because next weekend will be filled with music, food and art, all very contemporary experiences. I think of it as a private party for locals. You can slip out of those petticoats and into your favorite jeans. Does anyone miss those pilgrims?
Adele Elliott, a New Orleans native, moved to Columbus after Hurricane Katrina.
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