Olney’s 42nd Community Day on its way

by Judith Hruz

Editor

It may have a slightly new name, but organizers and sponsors say the event will be the same beloved community gathering that has drawn thousands of visitors for over four decades.

Hosted by the Olney Chamber of Commerce, the 42nd Olney Community Day — no longer Community Night — will be held 1-5 p.m. March 24 at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School.

“Community Day celebrates everything Olney has to offer, bringing together all facets of our community,” said Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Terri Hogan. “It also provides an opportunity for businesses, especially those without a storefront, to connect with the residents.”

Nearly 100 local businesses, non-profit groups, community organizations, county agencies, food and beverage vendors, and others will be in the spotlight at the event, known as Montgomery County’s longest running business expo and Taste of Olney.

The event has traditionally been held on a weeknight with an annual attendance estimated at over 4,000 residents, but this year will take place on Sunday afternoon.

While the decision was originally based on school availability, organizers are hopeful the new time will make the event even more appealing to families looking for something free and fun to do, Hogan said.

Children’s activities will include moon bounces, games, a photo booth, face painting, circus fun and crafts. Performances will feature dance and karate studios and other activities will include raffles, giveaways and more.

The Taste of Olney will feature several local restaurants. At press time, participating vendors include Mamma Lucia, Passion Bakery, Scratch Kitchen, Crepe Shoppe Cafe, Mackie’s BBQ, La Table du Chateau, Kona Ice, Carmen’s Italian Ice and Pacha Mama Juice Company.

Vendors will be set up in the dining hall, with food trucks parked just outside.

Beer, wine and spirts will be offered by Lone Oak Brewing Company, The Olney Winery and Twin Valley Distillers. Beverages will be available for consumption at the event or to take home.

Look for Vicky the Pink Fire Truck promoting breast cancer awareness and The Sandy Spring Volunteer Fire Department’s Fire Safety Trailer, both parked just outside the dining hall. The interactive mobile safety trailer teaches children and adults fire prevention and survival skills, including exiting techniques in a simulated smoke-filled environment, how to check the door for heat and the “stop, drop and roll” technique.

Hogan said Community Day not only provides enjoyment for residents who visit, but helps the Olney Chamber to fulfill its mission of supporting, promoting and representing the business interests of its members and to strengthen the local business economy.

The chamber is celebrating its 60^th anniversary this year with more than 300 members.

“We are very proud of our member businesses and this event allows us to show them off,” said Hogan. “Attending Community Day demonstrates your support for these businesses, which not only employ our residents, but also actively contribute to local fundraisers, reinvest in the community, and help maintain Olney’s unique sense of community.”

Olney Community Day is chaired by Andriana Weinstein, co-owner of Open Road Trailer Services and a chamber board member.

“We are grateful for all the participants, volunteers and community members that make Community Day something to look forward to every year,” she said.

Brooke Grove Retirement Village, Sandy Spring Bank and What’s Up Promotions are this year’s Community Day Gold Sponsors.

    Community Day will be held 1-5 p.m. March 24 at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, 17301 Old Vic Blvd., Olney. Admission and activities are free, but those attending are asked to bring non-perishable food items for Olney HELP and used eyeglasses to be collected by the Olney Lions.

    Additional parking will be available at Olney Theatre Center and William H. Farquhar Middle School, with shuttle bus service will be provided. Parking attendants will direct visitors to offsite parking if necessary.

    Check for event updates on the Olney Chamber of Commerce website, www.olneymd.org, and on Facebook and Instagram.