August 18 & 19
The Backstory:
After last year’s celebration, another Cascade Days event looked uncertain. But we heard the community’s cry: We NEED Cascade Days to continue. So the Concrete Chamber Board stepped up, despite of the short timeline and not a huge amount of funding. What we lacked in those areas, we more than made up for in enthusiasm — and we received an outpouring of support from volunteers!
We started by some intense information-gathering, including public meetings where community members shared their ideas and feedback, as well as email announcements, an online survey that more than 115 people responded to, and an avalanche of social media, email, and text conversations!
From all that, the Concrete Chamber is pleased to report some exciting new developments for Cascade Days 2023!
THE FORMAT
The event will be held on Friday and Saturday, August 18 and 19. This is a departure from recent years when activities were held only on Saturday and Sunday. Some of you may remember that in the not-so-distant past, Fridays kicked off the event. Historically, as far back as the 1940s, that’s the format Cascade Days followed. We’re all about building back the history of this event!
Based on an analysis of survey responses and in response to many comments, we have determined that the parade and car show are best when held on Saturday. And watch for some fun surprises we have in store for Friday night!
THE MEANING
To many, Cascade Days might seem like a summertime party in Concrete, but it’s much more than that. Watch our website (www.concrete-wa.com) for the meaning behind the event and what we’re actually celebrating. It might inspire you to create a float for the parade, visit our local museum, or talk to some of the longtime residents who remember how this event came about.
FRIDAY NIGHT
We’re planning an adult baseball game, as well as pickle ball lessons and games, in Veterans’ Memorial Park. There’ll also be kids activities and food. Later, plan to join us in Town Center for live music, dance lessons, a beer garden and some fun stuff at the Theatre.
THE VENUES
Cascade Days happens all over town this year, not just along Main Street. We’re proud of our parks and gathering places and want you to enjoy all of them.
TOWN CENTER will host the parade and car show on Saturday, and you’re encouraged to visit our businesses before, during and after those activities. Anyone can be part of the parade and the car show, this is where our community will shine! Parade registration is free and you’ll be able to sign up online.
VETERAN’S PARK is the location of the firemen’s muster, food, crafts and kids’ activities. We’re excited to announce we’ll have a log show, actually 3 separate logging skills demonstrations. Don’t miss this!
SILO PARK is where you’ll find the All-Class Concrete High School Reunion. If this is your “milestone year,” get in touch with the coordinators of your class, or else just show up and see who you recognize! This is also a great place to bring your family and let the kids play in the Spray Park and Skate Park.
COMMUNITY CENTER is the location of the Saturday Market, where you can buy fresh fruit & veggies, and visit the arts & crafts booths. There’ll also be food-related contests: Jam & Jelly Contest, Watermelon-Eating Contest, and a first-ever Bake Walk…with some fun prizes!
This is the first year in more than a decade that the Concrete Chamber of Commerce has been responsible for Cascade Days. We are thrilled to be coordinating it, and know this will be a great event — but please be patient as we work through the logistics!
Our goals are to be as innovative as possible, and to communicate and collaborate with the community. If you have questions, comments or feedback, please contact Cascade Days Chairperson, Cheryl Weston, or any of the Concrete Chamber Board Members: Valerie Stafford, Helen Ovenell, Cindy Kleinhuizen, or Anne Bussiere. We welcome your help and ideas! Help make this an event the whole community can be proud of.