Fleetwood celebrating 150th anniversary with yearlong series of events

Fleetwood will kick off its 150th anniversary celebration this month with a series of community events.

The events start Saturday with the Fleetwood pageant and culminate in December with the arrival of Santa Claus — a borough tradition for more than 50 years, according to the Fleetwood Council of Community Organizations.

“We’ve got a great party planned,” 150th celebration Chairman and FCCO President Kelly Ebeling-Schaeffer said in a press release, noting that there are “events for everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, because we’re celebrating the past, present and future of what makes Fleetwood such a special place to call home.”

Saturday’s pageant takes place at 7 p.m. at Fleetwood High School. Miss Fleetwood, Junior Miss Fleetwood, Little Miss Fleetwood and Ms. Fleetwood will be crowned.

Summer events include the Memorial Day parade, the annual Fleetwood Carnival, concerts in Fleetwood Park, a legends of Fleetwood golf tournament at Moselem Springs Golf Course, Fleetwood Community Theater’s production of Footloose, and a time capsule creation and dedication.

Other anniversary highlights include a celebration gala in August that serves as the world premiere of the award-winning documentary Finding Fleetwood. Narrated by 11-time Emmy Award winner Kathie Lee Gifford, the movie features dozens of residents sharing memories of home.

The gala is followed in September by a parade and outdoor concert headlined by Grammy-nominated country music star Chuck Mead, and a fireworks display and homecoming celebration in Ray Buss Field.

Fleetwood’s churches will then join forces for a closing ceremony in the park in October before the arrival of Santa in December.

“It’s incredibly gratifying to see so much support and excitement from our residents, businesses and civic organizations,” Fleetwood Mayor Tammy Gore said. “Having that sense of community, of home, of connection to one another is maybe more important today than ever. And Fleetwood has it in spades. I couldn’t be more happy or proud.”

Bill Strause of the Fleetwood Historical Society said he’s seen a lot in his 70 years as a borough resident.

“One thing that hasn’t changed around here is our sense of community pride, community engagement, and community compassion,” Strause said. “Hands down, this is the best place to live in Berks County. And if you don’t believe me, come on out to these events and see for yourself.”

A full list of events, including their time, location, and cost, if any, can be found at fleetwoodboro.com.

For more information, email event organizers at fleetwood150thcelebration@gmail.com.

Organizers also have a monthly email newsletter providing the latest information on events, including sponsorships and registrations. To subscribe, send an email to friendfwood@icloud.com.

Source: Berkshire mont