Farmington Founders Festival Comes Full Circle with Move to Chamber

The Farmington Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is moving forward with plans to shift away from managing downtown events, starting with the community's signature celebration. 

The DDA is handing over management of the summer Founders Festival to the Greater Farmington Area Chamber, in a deal formally announced this week. 

DDA director Annette Knowles said the move is expected to "shake things up a bit" and add a fresh perspective to the event, which is heading into its 50th year. The DDA has pledged start-up funding; DDA event planner Janet Bloom and coordinator Kristin Curle will move to the Chamber.

Knowles is also transitioning into a position as assistant to Farmington city manager Vince Pastue, a move approved by DDA and city officials more than a year ago. 

According to a press release, the DDA board of directors approved the change in Founders Festival management at a special meeting on Oct. 24, in keeping with the organization's move toward a focus on business development, infrastructure and district marketing. 

Officials are also trying to identify "alternate management options" for the DDA's remaining events, including the fall Harvest Moon Celebration and the summer Rhythmz in Riley Park concert series, according to the release. DDA president Melissa Andrade said the intent is not to diminish the events, but to reduce costs and overhead. 

Founders Festival mainstays such as the parade and beer tent, along with areas for children, crafters and local history, will continue, according to the release. And, in a way, the event is coming full circle. 

Before the DDA assumed responsibility for the Festival, it operated under the guidance of the non-profit Farmington Area Founders Festival organization. Coincidentally, the Festival was launched by a former iteration of the Chamber, so its return to the Chamber's auspices demonstrates it has come full circle.

"Fifty years ago, the Farmington/Farmington Hills Chamber of Commerce started the Founders Festival, and on its 50th anniversary, the Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome it home," chamber executive director Mary Engelman said.