Inaugural Americana

music festival a hit for

summer’s end, to make repeat appearance next year.

POULSBO — Fall harvest may be just around the corner but Saturday went the way of a lazy summer day at Poulsbo’s inaugural Americana Music Festival.

The Greater Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce event drew 800 attendees with the hopes of raising money for both the chamber and Eli’s Place, a safe haven home for battered women and children.

“Everyone was saying, ‘Wow, this is a great way to end the summer,’ ” said chamber Executive Director Adele Heinrich. “Everyone wants to do it again.”

Families picnicked on blankets spread beneath Raab Park’s trees while sun-infused kids played in the event’s bounce house, had their faces painted and participated in bubble blowing, pie eating and gunny sack race competitions.

The Rhythm and Shoes Cloggers entertained the crowd mid-afternoon, their announcer calling out “Do a turkey to the right!” while jean-clad dancers moved to a lively tune. The Tune Stranglers, Chele’s Kitchen and the Konzelman Family Band took the stage as well, and the entire day played out to the eau d’ barbeque, courtesy of the Kiwanis Club.

“It was really a great time,” Heinrich said, adding Poulsbo Mayor Kathryn Quade and the military members on hand to help made it a special day.

In an e-mail to the chamber, Sgt. Major Cook wrote the Poulsbo community provided those in his command a worthwhile experience.

“The Poulsbo community treated the Marines and Sailors great. … The event was awesome,” he said.

Next up for the chamber is its second annual Business Expo Oct. 16 at The Zone Sportsplex. The chamber is currently taking reservations.

For more information, visit www.poulsbochamber.com or call (360) 779-4848.