Celebrating 86 Years of Tradition: The Springfield High School Turkey Festival
Source: SHS Band Facebook Page
The Springfield High School Turkey Festival has been a beloved tradition for 86 years, bringing together students, families, and the community for a night of music, fun, and camaraderie. While the exact origins of the festival may have faded into history, it has evolved over the years into a cherished event that celebrates the school's band program and fosters a strong sense of school spirit and community pride. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Turkey Festival, its significance, and how it continues to thrive year after year.
Source: SHS Band Facebook Page
A Concert Band Concert Turns into a Tradition:
The Turkey Festival began as a Concert Band concert held on the Friday before Thanksgiving. In its early years, it was a musical performance showcasing the talent of high school students. However, in the early 1980s, under the guidance of Mr. Dale Davidson, the festival transformed into an end-of-season marching band performance for high school students, while the junior high students continued to perform in a concert band setting. This shift allowed the high school band to celebrate the culmination of their marching band season and prepare for the upcoming holiday concert in December.
The Unique Atmosphere of the Turkey Festival:
Unlike many other festivals, the Turkey Festival doesn't have a specific theme. Instead, it offers a blend of musical performances that cater to different age groups and musical tastes. The junior high bands perform fun, grade-level music, while the high school band showcases songs from their season's halftime shows and favorite "Stands Tunes," the music played in the stands during football games.
Source: SHS Band Facebook Page
A Focus on Community and Tradition:
The Turkey Festival has always featured bands exclusively from Springfield Local Schools, emphasizing its role as a community event. Over the years, the festival has played a crucial role in recruitment, allowing younger students to witness the musical journey they can embark on in high school. This firsthand experience often inspires them to join the band, creating a sense of continuity and tradition within the program.
Preparing for the Festival:
Organizing an event of this magnitude requires extensive planning and effort. The boosters play a pivotal role by dedicating countless hours to collecting donations, preparing raffle ticket sales, and assembling raffle baskets. These efforts not only ensure the festival's success but also serve as a major fundraiser for the band boosters, benefiting the entire band program.
Evolution and Adaptations:
The Turkey Festival has evolved over the years to meet changing needs and circumstances. For instance, in the late 90s, black lights and glow-in-the-dark elements were introduced to infuse a high-energy atmosphere. The COVID-19 pandemic also prompted changes in how raffle tickets were sold, with the introduction of online sales, resulting in increased profits.
Source: SHS Band Facebook Page
Community Support:
The Springfield community plays a crucial role in supporting the Turkey Festival. Local businesses and individuals can get involved by donating items for raffle baskets, purchasing raffle tickets, or attending the festival. The festival's success is deeply intertwined with the community's engagement and contributions.
Looking to the Future:
While the primary goals of the Turkey Festival remain consistent—to raise funds for the boosters and recruit future band members—there is always room for growth and improvement. The festival's enduring tradition and connection to the community ensure its continued success for years to come.
The Springfield High School Turkey Festival is more than just a musical event; it's a celebration of tradition, community, and the enduring spirit of the Spartan Band. Over its 86-year history, it has inspired countless students to pursue their musical passions and has become a symbol of pride and unity for the Springfield Township community. As this beloved tradition continues to evolve and adapt, it remains a must-attend event that brings people together and leaves a lasting impact on all who participate.
Watch this event on October 21st at 7 p.m. at Spring High School
Article Sponsored By:
Springfield Lakemore Chamber of Akron is a non-profit organization made up of local businesses and governing bodies that operate in and around the Springfield Lakemore area. Springfield Lakemore Chamber of Akron has a goal to promote, protect and serve the civic, social, and economic interests of the Springfield Township, Village of Lakemore, and surrounding areas to encourage a unified public spirit in the community. You may see our members volunteering their time in the many community-held events or at our annual Car Show each year in October.
