No Elderfest at Dearborn Homecoming This Year

One popular Dearborn Homecoming event will be noticeably absent from this year's festivities: Elderfest, typically held Friday morning to kick off the festival, is moving to a new date and time.

The Dearborn Community Fund confirmed that the event–a celebration of food, music, dancing and activities for Dearborn seniors–will be held this year on Sept. 14 at Ford Field Park.

After years of success at Homecoming, Community Fund Executive Director EmmaJean Woodyard explained that the city's Senior Commission felt it would work better as a separate event.

Last year, the Polish Legion made the decision that they wanted to move their tent to the spot typically occupied by Elderfest. As a result, the latter event was moved to the area of the park near the baseball diamonds–which meant a longer walk, and a less central location for seniors to attend the event.

"It just didn’t work for what the seniors were used to and liked to do," Woodyard explained. "The Senior Commission decided that they would prefer to hold the event at a separate time."

Though the long-standing tradition for Dearborn seniors is no longer part of Homecoming, Woodyard pointed out several benefits: Elderfest will now take place at a time when there is less commotion at Ford Field, and during an expectedly milder climate.

"I think this will be a win-win for seniors," she added.

Elderfest will take place from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 14 in the North Shelter at Ford Field Park.

According to the Dearborn Senior Center, the new "Autumn Elderfest" will be Bavarian-style, with live music, a walk with Mayor Jack O'Reilly, dancing, raffles, games and Bingo. Food offerings will include hot dogs, soft pretzels, ice cream and root beer.

Call 313-943-2412 for more information.