Visitors Enjoy Chautauqua Days at Historic Epworth Park
BETHESDA – Many braved the heat and almost constant threat of storms, enjoying themselves among the giant oaks of Epworth Park last weekend at the 36th Annual Chautauqua Days Festival.
Saturday’s activities were underway early with many bargain seekers surveying table upon table of donated used items at a White Elephant Sale and young people, fishing poles in hand, surrounding Epworth Park Lake for the annual village sponsored Youth Fishing Tournament.
Entertainment included Celtic Music by Dee & Paddy and Company, the always popular Shuman Band and a new feature this year, a Talent Show Sunday afternoon.
Over 100 youngsters took part in the Kids Activity Zone “on the hill” Saturday afternoon enjoying face painting, games and balloon figures.
(Epworth Park Cottage Owners image) and ©Barnesville Area News Company Photos
Sunday, activity expanded to the other side of the lake with the annual Bethesda Car Show hosted by the Union Local Rotary Club. Read more about the car show here.
Chautauqua Miss Norah Woods was busy Saturday afternoon. ©Barnesville Area News Company Photo
Following the Chautauqua Royalty Luncheon at the nearby Bethesda Community Center, participants gathered on the grounds for this photo. (Epworth Park Cottage Owners image)
The festival royalty, along with representatives from other festivals and communities, enjoyed a Saturday luncheon followed by a “Walk along the Avenue”.
Vendors offered everything from jewelry, antiques and collectibles to baked goods and produce. Sandwiches and ice cream were also offered.
(Epworth Park Cottage Owners image) and ©Barnesville Area News Company Photos
The festival, an official event of the Epworth Park Cottage Owners Association, provides awareness of the historic Church Camp/Chautauqua Park that traces its roots to a Methodist camp meeting that took place during the summer of 1870. In 1891, Chautauqua programming was added.
Epworth Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2025.
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Disclaimer: The writer is member of the Epworth Park Cottage Owners Association and a cottage owner at the park.
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