From 1974-1980 our little village of Bolivar held a Strawberry Festival downtown on Canal Street (then Central Avenue). The town merchants sponsored this event which, according to the local newspaper, brought in approximately 40,000 people at its highest point.

The Festival started with a Queen’s Ball on Friday night. Each year would bring a new Strawberry Festival Queen at the end of the ball. Queens must be nominated and be at least 65 years old.

The Strawberry Festival resumed bright and early Sunday mornings with a Raft Race on the Tuscarawas River. The race finished at the Route 212 Bridge in Wilkshire Hills. The Strawberry Festival continued downtown on Central Avenue with crafters, entertainment, dancing, a parade, a strawberry eating contest, and lots of food.

In 2005, the Bolivar Main Street Assoc. revived the Bolivar Strawberry Festival to its current status on Father’s Day weekend in June. We’ve brought back the Queen’s contest and the Strawberry eating contest. Additionally, each year we offer new events along with lots of yummy strawberry treats. Area businesses and clubs also provide different types of food and activities.

Rides, entertainment, a brew tent, and crafters round out the festival. A Little Miss Shortcake Pageant for 4-6 year old girls and a Miss Berry Princess for 7-9 year old girls as well as a 5-K Run and a Fireman’s Parade tops off the festival to make it a “Berry” great experience for the whole family.

Each year brings something new to the festival… you never know what will be added next. Come join us and see for yourself!