A little over five years ago, the Green County Cooperative Extension Service put together a program for its community leaders over the struggles of our small town. This program gave statistics and brought truth to our leaders about the ageing population of Green County, the minimum amount of jobs, our low tax base, and our low income families. No one wants to talk about these issues, but they are real concerns for Green County.

Shortly after this meeting, the Green County Cooperative Extension Service and the Green County Cattlemen’s Association sat down one night during a board meeting and discussed this program and the facing issues of Green County. The Cattlemen’s realized there is nothing they can do about the ageing population, there is no short term fix for jobs or the tax base, but there is something they could do for Green County. By the end of the night the ideas and goals had come together. This is how Freedom Fest was born.

As Freedom Fest was developed, we had a two missions to go by:  Freedom Fest was to be free for all to attend and it was to be fun and a family oriented event for all of Green County to enjoy. We envisioned family and friends gathering in groups laughing, smiling, and enjoying each other’s company while their kids were running, playing and enjoying the entertainment at the same time. Using local bands for entertainment and within five years possibly having bouncy houses for the kids, pony rides, maybe even some sort of race. 

On July 1^st, 2016 the very first Freedom Fest began. Six bands performed such as The Foster Children, Exie Boy’s, Thin Line, The Lindsey Family, Raymond Stillwell, and No Deceit. There were approximately 350 in attendance that night to enjoy the entertainment by the bands, the National Anthem sang by Kloe Jewell, and the awesome fireworks show shot off by our local fire fighters. 

This year was another great year. This year the vision that the Green County Cattlemen’s once had had almost come full circle. With 76 community sponsors and over 3000 in attendance there were family and friends laughing and enjoying each other’s company while children ran and played. Great entertainment was provided by Little David &Bad Country, Raymond “Dick” Stillwell, Ronnie McDowell, and Little Texas. For our small town this is more than just a concert with fireworks. Our sponsors sees the need, not only for the people but also for the economic growth in our community. Our gas stations, Dollar markets, and restaurants expresses to us how much extra business they have because of this event. Our sponsors always tell us they receive new business because of their sponsorship. While I may not know the exact impact this has on our community, I know it is a positive impact that Green County needs.