Whether you're looking for crafts, live musical entertainment, a Civil War encampment, yummy food or simply an autumn stroll through a historic town, the Town of Clifton is the place to be. This Sunday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., it will hold its 34th annual Clifton Day celebration.
It's sponsored by the Clifton Betterment Association, and CBA president Keith Abbott says it's "the single, biggest event held in the Clifton community. It's unique because it brings together so many different groups and organizations that raise money for various things, and it's the biggest fund-raiser for the CBA."
He said everyone in the community looks forward to Clifton Day. "It goes with fall," he said. "Keep your fingers crossed for sunny weather."
Clifton Mayor Jim Chesley also hopes for favorable skies: "If we can have the type of weather we had last weekend, we'll have a tremendous Clifton Day." And Clifton, itself, is putting on its best face for all the visitors. Said Chesley: "We have all new flags up in town, and it really looks nice."
Event chairman is Jim Fullerton, and he's amassed all the necessary ingredients for a crowd-pleasing day. There'll be children's games and pony rides, plus craft demonstrations including wool spinning, tole painting, stained glass, beading and basketry.
And 150 juried craft vendors will line Chapel Road and Main Street, offering everything from handmade jewelry to artwork, wreaths, wooden furniture, leather goods and ornaments. Also available will be fine arts, collectibles and antiques.
The Clifton Farmers Market will sell fresh produce, including pumpkins, honey and breads. Attendees may also feast on treats such as pizza, fruit smoothies, Brunswick Stew, chili, pork barbecue, baked goods, apple cider and even a sit-down chicken dinner.
"For all these charitable organizations, it's the biggest day of the year," said Chesley. "I'm looking forward to flipping hamburgers and turning hot dogs for the Clifton Lions Club."
The 49th Virginia Infantry will do a Civil War encampment at the Clifton Presbyterian Church manse. Said commander Tony Meadows: "It's living history and show-and-tell." Also planned is live, musical entertainment in front of the fire station. There's no VRE train, but there's extra parking on Newman Road, plus lots at Kincheloe Road, Clifton Elementary, the flood plain and on Chapel Road east of town.
So circle this Sunday on the calendar, grab your comfy shoes and come on down to Clifton. "It's going to be a great day and a lot of fun," said Chesley. "The town is ready."
And anyone who'd like to help — either before or after the big day — is more than welcome. Volunteers are still needed to help set up the day before, at 9 a.m., at Ayre Square. Call Phoebe Peterson at 703-815-3817.