One weekend, every year, Thurmont is taken over by crafters, vendors, visitors, and shoppers during the Catoctin Colorfest. The show promotes “artisans and craftsman who are hard-working individuals putting their hearts and souls into their craft.” While it seems like a temporary small-town take-over, it is nice to know that the show generates a significant financial benefit to our community.
Catoctin Colorfest’s president, Carol Robertson, and Colorfest Committee members hosted a banquet on November 14, 2016 to thank event volunteers and distribute donations. A total of $18,044.08 was distributed to various organizations of Thurmont. Highlights included that the Guardian Hose Company, Thurmont Ambulance Company, and Thurmont Police Department were each given $1,500, Catoctin High School Scholarships totalled $3,500, $2,500 was given to the Town of Thurmont towards the reforestation of the Community Park, and the Thurmont Food Bank received $3,000. The Town of Thurmont issued 694 permits for the weekend, with 34 being food vendors, and Catoctin Colorfest paid the town $14,420 for official Colorfest vendors. Robertson extended sincere thanks to event volunteers, town staff, and the Thurmont community.
Some of those who attended the 2016 Colorfest Banquest are shown.