Guide to Garner 2018-19 edition | Page 21

CARNAVAL LATINO This festival, held annually in mid- to late September, celebrates the richness and diversity of our community. The event features live music, food vendors, hands-on activities and crafts for kids and informational booths and tables. FIREMEN’S FESTIVAL Garner’s oldest festival (formerly known as Firemen’s Day) features a variety of vendors, food, a live fi re demonstration, a raffl e and a much-loved parade of fi retrucks and other fi rst-responder vehicles. It all takes place the fi rst Saturday in October around the fi re station at the corner of Benson Road and Main Street. trick-or-treat on the beautiful trails at White Deer Park (2400 Aversboro Road). Thousands of visitors and dozens of local businesses and organizations participate in this free event. LIGHT UP MAIN/CHRISTMAS PARADE On the fi rst Friday evening in December, Garner’s downtown is transformed into a holiday wonderland during the Light Up Main festival (featuring the annual tree- lighting ceremony) on Garner’s Main Street. Local entertainment livens up the evening, and children have the chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The next afternoon, Garner comes together for the annual Christmas Parade, one of Garner’s most cherished traditions. TRICK-OR-TREAT THE TRAILS This event promises a fun, safe, family-friendly opportunity for l ittle ghosts and goblins to Garner Remembers and Honors Magnet High Symphonic Band typically form the core of the event. MEMORIAL DAY AND VETERANS DAY The Garner Veterans Memorial at Lake Benson Park (921 Buffaloe Road) is site for the town’s annual Memorial Day observance. Local veterans groups and the Town of Garner sponsor this tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifi ce. Garner traditionally marks Veterans Day at an observance at Aversboro Road Baptist Church (1600 Aversboro Road). Speakers, singing performances and a mini-concert by the Garner CELEBRATION OF THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF THE REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. The greater Garner community comes together annually on a Sunday in mid-January to honor the civil rights leader and interpret his life and legacy in the context of our times. The event is held at Garner Performing Arts Center (742 W. Garner Road). garnernc.gov 19