Go See This: Goldston Old Fashion Day

James Vose is a local business owner, US Army Veteran, and father. He currently serves as a Pittsboro Town Commissioner and is committed to generating a vibrant cultural community through projects like our Go See This series. Vose Natural Stone is proud to be our 2024-2025 sponsor, and we are delighted to present an article by guest writer Barbara Hengstenberg. We invite you to Go See This…

According to Goldston’s Mayor Jonathan Hensley, Goldston Old Fashion Day is a “timeless celebration of community and tradition that unfolds every autumn.” For 37 years, “the streets of downtown Goldston come alive with a vibrant array of activities and entertainment…a bustling marketplace where local artisans and vendors offer handmade crafts, homemade jams and jellies, and fresh produce. It’s a perfect opportunity for visitors to take home a piece of Goldston, whether it’s a jar of honey from a nearby farm or a handcrafted piece of pottery.”

Lisa Denkins is the Festival Coordinator for the Goldston Lions Club, which has sponsored the event for the past 30 years. The festival was originated 37 years ago by Benny Gaines, Sr. and Ann Daurity, town residents who wanted to share the talents of local artisans and the history of Goldston. Mrs. Denkins tells us that this year there will be about 125 vendors and service agencies from Chatham County, offering a wide variety of goods and services: fall mums, jams and jellies, leather items, woodworking, pottery, jewelry, candles, honey, tote bags, tumblers, soaps, t-shirts, dips/salsas/soup mixes, stuffed animals, aprons, handwoven baskets, wreaths, homemade dog treats, flags, custom crocs, antiques, as well as a smorgasbord of just about any food imaginable!

There will also be two functioning Western Chuckwagons demonstrating chuckwagon cooking styles from back in the day. Mrs. Denkins notes that “our vendors make quality products and have fair prices, so families can afford to shop for that special item or even Christmas list items.”

Children love Goldston Old Fashion Day, as they can participate in games and activities such as a petting zoo, wall climbing and a bouncy house.

As part of this year’s Goldston Old Fashion Day, the Classic Car Show is in memory of Mrs. Denkins’ late husband, Bruce Denkins, who was greatly involved in the Goldston community, whether it be through the Lions Club, coaching youth softball, hosting the Goldston Cruz-N, or many other community-minded activities.For the Classic Car Show, vehicles aged 35 and older are invited into the show at a cost of $20. All proceeds of the Classic Car Show will go to J.S. Waters Elementary School in Goldston. Door prizes and trophies will also be presented.

Finally, Mayor Hensley tells us that “perhaps the most significant aspect of Goldston Old Fashion Day is the sense of community it fosters. For many, this is a homecoming of sorts, a time to reconnect with old friends and family members. It’s a day that brings the entire town together. As Goldston continues to grow and evolve, Old Fashion Day remains a steadfast reminder of the town’s enduring spirit and commitment to preserving its heritage. It’s a day when time seems to slow down, allowing everyone to appreciate the simple pleasures of life in a small town. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, this cherished event offers a warm welcome and a heartfelt invitation to step back in time and experience the magic of Goldston.”

The Short Version:

• • What: Goldston Old Fashion Day
  • When: Saturday, October 12, 2024 – 9:00am-4:00pm
  • Where: Downtown Goldston, NC
  • Cost: Free
  • Parking: Street parking available
  • Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available at Goldston Automotive; streets are accessible 

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