Cityfolk festival survives tough times

Dayton, OHIO (WDTN) - Cityfolk festival in downtown Dayton will continue to offer free entertainment this year despite facing tough economic challenges.  The event will kickoff Friday evening while some communities across the country have canceled their festivities.

In order to cut costs old signs are being used again. Just the year has been changed.  John Harris, executive director of Cityfolk said, "It's been tough."
Cityfolk is a not for profit group that relies on corporate sponsorships, grants, and contributions.  Harris told 2 News  it costs about 400-thousand dollars to put on the three day event downtown. That figure includes setting up and booking performers. Harris said, "This year more than ever it's really important to hold back  your costs wherever you can."

By combining the festival with the Fourth of July fireworks streets don't have to be closed off two separate times and that also helps with cost-cutting.  Harris said, "Things are bad. We're glad we can bring this great festival to people for free again this year, but it's hard to see how that's going to happen again if things don't change."

Harris said the festival typically draws 80,000 to 100,000 people downtown.    L & H Deli-licious restaurant  plans to stay open past regular business hours to cash in on the crowds.  But for owner Lawrence Wesley Cityfolk festival is more than just an opportunity to sell burgers.  Wesley told 2 News, "It's the diversity of different crowds, you know what I'm saying bringing in hope, faith and one just togetherness."

Cityfolk lost about $100,000 from corporate sponsors this year so don't be surprised if you go downtown and you're asked to contribute.