In 1986 ….

Fred Puglia brought a “crazy” idea to City of Decatur Mayor Gary Anderson. His idea was to produce a festival in the city streets of downtown that would be absolutely free to everyone who attended.

At the time the City of Decatur was experiencing a recession, labor disputes, and several other issues that resulted in a less-than-attractive image. With the concern of the community’s image and morale on his mind, Mayor Anderson loved the idea believing an event like this was just what the city needed to boot community pride and quality of life.

After winning the Mayor’s approval, Puglia was invited to the City Council meeting to further explain his ideas. During the meeting, a committee was appointed to work with the Mayor and Puglia to see if this dream could become a reality. This committee was made up of the Mayor, two City Council members, two community leaders, and Puglia. Within a few weeks, a rough plan was placed in front of the council and approved with a target date set for the first weekend in August. The leaders who participated in the early planning sessions were later appointed to the Board of Directors of the festival, and would also be recognized by the community as the true founding fathers of the Celebration (Mayor Anderson, Orv Graham & Jim Masey).

The first year was major success with an estimated 125,000 people packed in to the downtown streets of Decatur on August 1, 2, and 3, 1986. The weather was perfect. The timing was perfect. And the enthusiasm from the public was overwhelming. The festival was planned to attract a good cross-section of the community. There was something for everyone. Fourteen (14) blocks contained 8 stages, 40 arts and crafts vendors, and a variety of street performers. A carnival, a separate children’s area, and a parade were part of bringing people from all walks of life together that first year.

Revenues from the three-day event were more than enough to cover the expenses the first year, leaving some cash to start planning for Celebration #2. And according to the public’s response, a second Decatur Celebration was inevitable.
The rest is history!