Have you ever wondered how America’s Founding Fathers celebrated birthdays? Well, Eustis, Florida, is about to show you! Dive into the 122nd Annual Georgefest, a week-long extravaganza honoring George Washington’s birthday, from February 17th to 24th, 2024. This legendary event, boasting the title of the US’s longest-running George Washington birthday celebration, promises a captivating mix of activities including a dog, a parade, historical reenactments, thrilling carnival rides & games, a bass tournament, and delectable treats. So, step back in time and discover the festive spirit of America’s past with a modern twist!
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GeorgeFest is a vibrant and community-driven event that brings residents, businesses, and visitors together. As Marie Aliberti takes on the role of the incoming Lake Eustis Chamber of Commerce President, she brings with her a vision and agenda to further enhance the impact and engagement of the Chamber with the local community. In this article, we will explore Marie’s goals and agenda for the Chamber and her background and experiences that have shaped her leadership style.
GeorgeFest 2024 Schedule
Headline Entertainment
Bryce Mauldin, originally from Webster, Florida, went from motorsport racing to music after a year of posting music when his first cover of “I Can Love You Like That” went viral, reaching over 9.1 million views and over 230K shares. He now lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with a freshly dropped self-titled EP and will be returning to a hometown crowd.
Thunderstorm Artis, a singer-songwriter raised in a musical Oahu family, blends island vibes with introspective lyrics. He impressed audiences on The Voice with both originals and covers, earning praise for his unique style. Artis has shared the stage with musical icons and toured extensively, solidifying his place as a rising talent.
Tracy Byrd is a familiar sound and successful singer and writer in the country music scene. Since 1993’s self-titled debut, hit #1 on Billboard’s Country Charts, the chart-topping Watermelon Crawl is a classic dance song, his most successful album was “The Keeper of the Stars” earned the certified double-platinum status and won the Academy of Country Music “Song of the Year” award in 1995.
Alabama-born singer Drake White rose from the church choir to become a Country music innovator. His hits like “Simple Life” established his “Country Soul” sound, earning him acclaim and sharing the stage with superstars like Luke Bryan.
Bass Fishing Tournament
The 5th Annual Georgefest Bass Fishing Tournament kicks off at first light on Sunday, February 18th, near the Eustis Community Center, with weigh-in and awards of $2,500-$5,000 at 2 pm. The partnership with Florida BASS Nation is to honor PFC Derek Gibson. Click here for registration or contact David Diggers at 407-455-3903.
Chili Cook-Off
Mark your calendars for the 9th Annual Georgefest Chili Cook-Off on Sunday, February 18th! Head to the Clifford House lawn (536 N. Bay St.) for a family-friendly afternoon of chili tastings. Sample delicious creations starting at 2:00 pm for just $10 per adult and $5 per child. Don’t miss this Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce event – it’s the perfect way to celebrate and savor some chili goodness!
For more information, contact the chamber at 352-357-3434
Dog Jog
Tails will be wagging for a good cause at the Georgefest Dog Jog! Join the Humane Society of Lake County, Paws & Effect, and Pedder’s Wagon for a fun run on Saturday, February 24th, starting at 9:30 AM. Registration is just $15, so lace up your running shoes and bring your furry friend for a morning of exercise and community spirit. It’s the perfect way to support local animal welfare organizations and have some fun with your pup!
George Is On My Mind – History Recital
Prepare for another charming performance as George Is On My Mind returns for its second year! Last year, ten young actors captivated audiences with the story of Georgefest and its connection to George Washington. This year, on Wednesday, February 21st at 6:30 PM, a new group of young stars will take the stage. Don’t miss this free, fun, and educational event! Find out more at the link below or contact the City of Eustis for details. Let’s celebrate history and give our future stars a moment to shine!
Download History Entry Form.pdf
Grand Parade
Mark your calendars for the legendary Georgefest Parade, a Lake County tradition and Central Florida’s premier parade! Organized by the Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce, this vibrant spectacle promises excitement for everyone. Want to join the fun? Applications are open now! Visit the link below or call (352) 357-3434 for details. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic celebration!
Georgefest History
From humble beginnings to a national landmark, Georgefest has come a long way! Back in 1902, Eustis locals threw a winter visitor appreciation event filled with Florida history. Coincidentally, it landed on George Washington’s birthday, sparking the idea for “George Washington’s Birthday Celebration.” Over a century later, this local gathering has transformed into the longest-running celebration of its kind in the entire US, aptly renamed “Georgefest.” Today, it boasts parades, concerts, a carnival, fireworks, and more, keeping the spirit of community and history alive and well.
Pageants
Get ready for a new chapter in Georgefest history! This year, the Miss Eustis pageant joins the festivities, celebrating young women in the community. The program fosters personal growth, community service, and leadership skills, empowering its participants to make a positive impact. Partnering with local leaders provides valuable tools for future success. Want to be involved? Contact the Events & Tourism Department for information or visit the links below to apply. It’s a chance to shine and contribute to your community!
Ring Raffle
Sparkling Opportunity Awaits at Georgefest! Thanks to local favorite Merry Jewelers, you can win a stunning grand prize ring at the Georgefest Ring Raffle. Only 500 tickets are available, each costing $5 individually or $20 for a bundle of five. Grab yours at the Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce, Merry Jewelers, Peddler’s Wagon, or Eustis City Hall. Don’t miss this chance to shine! For more details, call the Chamber at 352-357-3434
Vendor Information
They are still accepting applications for vendors! Download the Vendor Application here.
For more information contact the Events & Tourism Department at 352-483-5491
Kick-off Application is due Feb 7, 2024
Youth Talent Showcase
Calling all young stars and local businesses! Showcase your talent and services at the Georgefest Youth Talent Showcase! Dance studios, karate dojos, magicians, musicians, and more – let your skills shine on stage Wednesday, February 21st at 7 PM. Businesses can even highlight their offerings between acts or through a booth, making it a win-win for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to entertain and connect with the community!
Interview with Marie Aliberti
Marie’s Background and Experiences
Marie’s upbringing in an entrepreneurial family and her own experience running a small campground/RV business have instilled in her a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by local businesses. Her involvement in various committees and her teaching experience at Eustis High School have fueled her passion for supporting and empowering young entrepreneurs.
Transitioning the Chamber
One of Marie’s primary goals as the incoming Chamber President is to ensure a smooth transition for the organization. This involves electing a new board and selecting a new chairperson who will bring fresh perspectives and ideas to drive the Chamber’s growth and impact.
Engaging with the Community
Marie believes that active community engagement is crucial for the success of the Chamber and its members. She plans to create more opportunities for members to connect and collaborate with the local community. This will enhance the visibility of businesses and foster a strong sense of belonging and support within the community.
Road Closures
Map and Directions
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Chamber has already partnered with the launch of the UCF Incubator in the Mega Work Place. This historic building, owned by businessman George Asbate, owner of Mega Companies, now serves as a hub for entrepreneurs and provides them access to resources and networking opportunities. Marie envisions further collaborations with organizations like 1 Million Cups, which offers a platform for entrepreneurs to share their challenges and seek advice in a supportive environment.
Promoting Local Businesses
Marie understands the importance of promoting local businesses and fostering a sense of pride among the community. One initiative she plans to implement is inviting businesses to host “their night” at the Libation Station Beer Tent. This not only allows businesses to showcase their company shirts but also provides them with an opportunity to promote their products and services to a wider audience.
Conclusion
As Marie takes on the role of the incoming Chamber President, her goals and agenda reflect a deep commitment to the success and well-being of the local business community. Through her leadership and community-focused initiatives, she aims to strengthen the bond between the Chamber, its members, and the vibrant community of Eustis. With Marie’s vision and dedication, the future of the Chamber looks brighter than ever.