Strawberry Festival draws thousands

CRAWFORDSVILLE, Ind. - Thousands of people headed to Crawfordsville for the 35th annual Strawberry Festival.

Mayor of Crawfordsville Charlie Coons said the event has something for everyone.

"The food has been great. A lot of activities in the community which is always beneficial, and everybody just seems to have a great time. We've got the kids covered with the kids area," said Coons.

One of the kids enjoying the festival was Crawfordsville resident Abbie Horn.

"I was playing on the bouncies and I've went through the maze. I've had a corn dog and a strawberry shake," said Horn.

Lafayette resident Eric Bell says the festival is an affordable alternative to taking a vacation.

"Lately with the economy the way it is. It is easier to stay close to home with festivals and things like that. It's not as easy to travel, pack up the kids, the expenses and stuff. This is nice because the weather is awesome, it's local, and you run into a lot of people you know," said Bell.

Mayor Coons said the festival can also be an educational experience.

"It highlights a lot of the area. People come to Crawfordsville and see a lot of our historic areas. We've got the historic Lane Place in which we are standing on," said Coons.