BIGGER AND BETTER, WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
Right in the heart of Mile Square Park, the annual Summerfest is returning to the city of Fountain Valley from Thursday, June 19, to Sunday, June 22.
Kicking off the summer season right after the school year ends for students and families, community members can once again look forward to the traditional slate of events for residents of all ages to enjoy, ranging from carnival attractions to live entertainment and community vendor booths.
Beginning in 2009, Summerfest debuted as a local car show. Over the last sixteen years, the celebration has grown into a regional attraction, bringing together residents from Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach, and from cities throughout Orange County.
“Summerfest was designed to be a party for the people by the people. Our goal is to kick off the summer with a party that gives families the opportunity to enjoy live music, community performances, and amazing carnival rides,” Chair of Summerfest Committee, Matt Taylor said. “Our goal is to create a party where families and friends come to make memories.”
The Summerfest Committee is composed primarily of volunteers and community members working with the Fountain Valley Recreation Center, along with the support of the FV Explorers and FV Community Foundation. Beginning in November, the committee works to plan the various aspects, including the main stage, community stage, food courts and retail vendors.
This year, residents can anticipate the classic collection of rides including bumper cars, merry-go-rounds, flying dragons, and super slides. The popular $3 Ride Night takes place Thursday.
On the community stage, performances include finalists of the Fountain Valley High School Vocal Music’s The Voice competition and locally based performing groups. The main stage will showcase the Fan Halen tribute band, Tijuana Dogs’ high-energy and multi-faceted dance band, high-octane country music of Jason Aldean and ALT2K’s rendition of iconic rock hits.
Friday will feature an evening firework show for a stunning and colorful display leading into the summer season.
Fountain Valley High School junior Addison Phan, who has attended Summerfest for 13 years since moving to Fountain Valley, is excited to toggle between the rides, musical performances, and vendors.
“This year, I’m looking forward to watching the fireworks and hanging out with my friends. We’ll definitely be buying the unlimited rides wristband. I also love just going to Summerfest for the food — the stalls serve a variety of different fair foods,” Phan said. “There’s something for everyone at Summerfest, and you’re bound to find something you enjoy. The city makes really great choices picking the cover bands.”
“There’s something really special about Summerfest. Even if the rides are the same, you always end up doing something different,” Phan said. “The nostalgia factor plays a role as well. Summerfest always signals the start of summer, where I can finally relax after a long nine months of school. It’s a great place to hang out with friends and family.”
For a complete list of carnival rides, vendors, and entertainment programming, residents can visit summerfestfv.com. Admission is $5 for all residents above the age of five and can be purchased online on the website before the event.
“Summer has never been so much fun!”