Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival Receives Commendation from Ohio Senate President
WAPAKONETA- The annual Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival, a beloved celebration of lunar exploration and community spirit, has received a prestigious commendation from Matt Huffman, President of the Ohio Senate. This recognition comes as the festival marks the 55th anniversary of Apollo 11, the historic mission during which Wapakoneta native Neil Armstrong became the first human to walk on the moon.
In a special tribute, Huffman acknowledged the festival’s remarkable role in commemorating Armstrong’s legacy. The commendation, issued by the Senate of the 135th General Assembly of Ohio, praises the festival for its vibrant blend of local culture, engaging activities, and community involvement. “The friendliness and neighborly atmosphere of this commemoration have certainly distinguished it as one of Ohio's finest festivals,” the commendation reads.
Jackie Martell, Executive Director of the Wapakoneta Area Chamber of Commerce, expressed her gratitude, stating, "We are truly humbled by this recognition from Senator Huffman. The success of the Summer Moon Festival is a reflection of our community's spirit and the incredible support we receive from our local businesses, civic organizations, and the hundreds of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy. We are especially grateful to Woody's Restaurants, our top sponsor this year, and to all our festival sponsors who make this event possible."
The annual Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival, which took place from July 16-21, 2024, spanned multiple locations across the town, celebrating not only Armstrong’s historic achievement but also the town's deep-rooted pride and hospitality. The festivities featured an impressive array of events, including live music performances, a lively vendor market, wiener dog races, a corn hole tournament, and the newly popular cardboard boat regatta on the banks of the Auglaize River.
Attendees also enjoyed the festival’s diverse offerings, from car and antique tractor shows to fun runs, a pageant, and special exhibits at the Armstrong Air and Space Museum. The museum extended its hours to accommodate the mass number of visitors and hosted astronaut appearances, interactive space-themed games, and engaging activities on its lawn. The Run to the Moon races, featuring 5K, 10K, and 1-mile fun runs, drew participants from across the country, while supporting the families of Auglaize County through the United Way.
The festival's vibrant atmosphere was further enhanced by food trucks, a beer garden, and a giant shopping experience known as The Moon Market, which showcased over 60 vendors. The downtown streets transformed into a bustling hub of activity, reflecting the festival's spirit of celebration and community unity.
In his commendation, Huffman also highlighted the dedication and hard work of Wapakoneta's residents, noting their “commendable spirit of cooperation and commitment.” He expressed admiration for the festival’s success and the optimism and determination displayed by the community.
As the festival continues to grow and evolve, it remains a testament to Wapakoneta’s enduring connection to its famous astronaut and its collective pride in celebrating a momentous chapter in history. The 55th anniversary festivities have once again solidified the Summer Moon Festival as a cornerstone of local culture and a shining example of common joy and resilience.
“The growth of the Summer Moon Festival has had a significant positive impact on our local economy, raising essential funds for our community service organizations and bringing people together to experience the warmth and hospitality of Wapakoneta. We look forward to continuing this tradition and building on our success in the years to come,” commented Martell. “We thank Senator Huffman for his recognition and extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who has contributed to making the Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival a cherished event in our community."