The first festival of the year is here, Vader May Day is this Saturday, May 4 and the theme couldn't be better. This year, the Vader May Day Committee decided on the theme "May The Fourth Be With You." They have quite the program of events this year, head to Vader to celebrate the beginning of festivals in Lewis County.
The 2019 Parade Grand Marshals are Dave Holland and Ivan Bachman. They moved to Vader 35 years ago. Dave had retired from the banking industry and Ivan from design and manufacture of wallpaper. Dave served as a Vader Councilmember for four years while also serving as Mayor Pro Tem. He also served on the Lewis County Historical Society for 4 years, started the Vader Citizens League with a group of 24 volunteers, and was instrumental in designing and publishing the first Vader History Book as a way to support the VCL. Ivan was the main thrust in the restoration of the Ben Olson House which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The events begin with Masonic Breakfast, starting at 7:00 a.m. until the parade at 11:00 a.m. The parade starts at 11:00 a.m. and it's always fun to watch the different groups and vehicle go through town, don't forget to bring your chairs. There will be a silent auction at the Community Center, stop by and put in your bid. The Little Crane Cafe had food by donation last year and they are doing it again this year, what a great idea. They also have quite a few vendors lined up, it's always fun to browse the different booths.
For the first time in years, Vader will have a beer garden, it opens at 1:00 p.m., live music begins at 4:00 p.m. and all events will close at 8:00 p.m.
Following is the schedule of events:
• 7 to 11 a.m. Masonic Breakfast, Little Falls Lodge, 9th & A St., Enjoy eggs, pancakes, ham, juice and coffee
• 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Vendor Check-In
• 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Parade Lineup
• 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Silent Auction at Community Center
• 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Parade Judging
• 11 a.m. Parade Begins
• Following Parade - Kids Games
• 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Little Crane Café food by donation only
• 12 p.m. Hawaiian Dancers
• 1 p.m. Bike Raffle - Must Be Present to Win!
• 1 p.m. Cake Walk
• 1 p.m.to 8 p.m. Beer Garden
• 4 to 8 p.m. Live Music with Renee and Nighttime Friends
• 8 p.m. Festivities Close
All Day:
• Free Blood Pressure Checks, Lewis County Fire District 20
• Lots of Vendors - Please support our vendors who help make our May Day Festival a success!