After a week dedicated to fostering bonds of friendship and promoting peace, Summerville is set to culminate its community-wide celebration with a vibrant Friendship Festival today. This free community event invites citizens and businesses alike to join in a day of fun, food, and fellowship at the Summerville Depot and the World Friendship Pocket Park, running from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The festival promises a diverse array of activities and attractions designed to bring people together. G.P. Federal Credit Union will be on site, distributing free friendship bracelets and various giveaways throughout the day. Attendees can explore a wide range of craft and specialty booths set up both inside and outside the historic Summerville Depot, offering unique finds and local artisan goods.

A major highlight for many will be the extensive selection of food vendors, representing a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Festival-goers can indulge in Hawaiian dishes and drinks, authentic Mexican cuisine from Rosita’s, a traditional fish fry by Christi Williams & Wayne Perry, and classic American BBQ from Small Town BBQ, featuring pulled pork, chicken wings, ribs, and loaded baked potatoes. Sweet and savory delights will also be plentiful, with Avans offering deep-fried corndogs, Oreos, and funnel cakes, alongside TT&D Philly Cheese Steaks, homemade fried pies by Reita, Dee’s fresh-squeezed lemonade, Shonda’s Gourmet Popcorn, coffee from Rxpresso, Charmin Charlie’s Chocolates, and unique freeze-dried candy from Howe Bites.

Train Arrival and Entertainment Galore

A highly anticipated moment of the day will be the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Passenger Train, scheduled to pull into the Summerville Depot around 1:00 p.m. Train enthusiasts and the general public are invited to welcome passengers on this special day. Immediately following the arrival, the majestic steam engine will be turned on the Summerville Turntable, a captivating spectacle and a favorite among railfans.

The festival will also feature a full schedule of live entertainment. Nashville’s own Jaycee Lynne will take the stage with musical performances at 10:30 a.m. and again at 1:15 p.m. The rich Hawaiian culture will be celebrated with a special interactive performance by Annette Punanani, accompanied by HIPS Dance & Fitness, at 12:00 noon.

Children and adults alike can look forward to special appearances and photo opportunities with Spiderman from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Additionally, visits with Papa Friendlyway, John Turner, and the World Friendship Flag are scheduled from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m., reinforcing the festival’s core message of global camaraderie.

Organizers express great hope that the Friendship Festival will inspire each individual to embody a positive attitude and commitment, helping to present Summerville to the state, nation, and world as a community dedicated to making the world a better place through friendship.