In a commendable effort to foster community spirit and support local initiatives, the Town of Greensboro hosts two major annual events that benefit the local economy while providing significant advantages to residents: the Car Show & Music Fest and the Whoville Holiday Park Village. Both events are held at no cost to the public, thanks to generous sponsorships and community engagement, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that underscores the town’s commitment to its citizens.
Car Show & Music Fest: Driving Community Support
Scheduled for August 31, 2024, this year’s Car Show & Music Fest is set to be a highlight of the town’s event calendar. By leveraging donations from local sponsors, the event eliminates any entry fees for attendees. Participants who wish to showcase their vehicles are charged a nominal fee, which fuels the funding for several community programs.
Event Details:
- Car Show: 1-4 PM at 13781 Greensboro Road, Greensboro, MD 21639.
- Music Fest: 4-8 PM, featuring performances by Nashville singer-songwriter Trea Landon and local favorites Rivers and Rhodes.
- Attractions: Over 50 trophies, food trucks, bounce houses, face painting, and more.
The funds raised from this festive gathering go directly towards supporting Greensboro’s free 12-week basketball program. This initiative, which involves around 125 participants from 2nd grade to age 16, provides jerseys, drinks, and trophies to those who complete the program. It not only helps children develop their basketball skills but also enhances community-police relationships through regular interactions with local officers.
“Our goal is to teach kids the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, fairness, respect, and confidence both on and off the court,” says a program coordinator. Each practice session begins with a discussion led by an officer, followed by skill-level-specific drills based on the Jr. NBA curriculum. The program emphasizes the value of an active lifestyle and its long-term benefits, aiming to positively influence children’s perceptions of law enforcement.
Additionally, any surplus funds from the event contribute to the purchase of sensory-inclusive playground equipment for local parks, further promoting inclusivity and accessibility within the community.
Whoville Holiday Park Village: Spreading Cheer and Raising Funds
As winter approaches, Greensboro transforms into a festive wonderland with the Whoville Holiday Park Village. Drawing in about 5,000 visitors each weekend, the event features enchanting light displays and community-centric activities.
Special Evenings:
- Dedicated nights for Greensboro residents.
- Exclusive night for after-school students from Greensboro Elementary School.
- A sensory-friendly night, where loud music and flashing lights are minimized to accommodate visitors with sensory sensitivities. The trails are designed to be fully handicap accessible.
Each evening, a different nonprofit organization takes charge of serving hot chocolate and cookies provided by the town, collecting donations that can range from $600 to $1,100 per night. These funds directly benefit the nonprofit organizations, further enriching Greensboro’s community support network.
Economic and Social Impact
These annual events not only uplift the local economy by attracting visitors and fostering community engagement but also provide invaluable resources and opportunities to Greensboro residents. By eliminating participation costs, the town ensures inclusivity and accessibility, allowing all residents to partake in the festivities and benefit from the proceeds.
Sponsors play a pivotal role in underwriting the costs, making it possible to maintain these events as free and accessible to all.
In a town where a significant portion of the population consists of underserved, low-income families, these community-driven initiatives serve as a beacon of hope and unity. They provide meaningful activities, reinforce positive relationships, and foster a sense of belonging, all while contributing to the economic vibrancy of Greensboro.
Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the spirit of community, the joy of giving, and the thrill of classic cars and music.