Hinklefest 2023: A Three-Decade Celebration of Community, Music, and Chicken Delights
Written by Jake Keiter and our featured piece in our September 27th print edition!
A Taste of Friday Night Fun
For an astonishing three decades, Hinklefest has etched its name into the hearts of Northern Lebanon and the surrounding regions. A spectacular blend of mouthwatering chicken-based cuisine, exhilarating rides and games, and a bustling marketplace filled with crafts and vendors, Hinklefest has firmly established itself as a beloved and enduring tradition for families of all ages.
The 2023 edition of Hinklefest commenced with a resounding burst of excitement. Fireman’s Park came alive as the sun dipped below the horizon on a Friday evening. From local residents to commuters from afar, the park was a sea of smiling faces, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of chicken delights wafting through the air.
As the evening unfolded, attendees were treated to a gastronomic adventure. They savored chicken fried rice, which tantalized their taste buds with its blend of flavors and textures. For those craving something heartier, chicken cheesesteaks provided a satisfying fix. The crowd’s unanimous favorite, however, was the succulent chicken wings, served in a variety of mouthwatering sauces.
But Hinklefest is not just about the food; it’s about creating memories for families. The Northern Lebanon FFA brought smiles to young faces with pony rides and a delightful petting zoo. Children and adults alike reveled in the opportunity to get up close and personal with adorable farm animals.
As the evening progressed, the anticipation for the night’s entertainment grew. The stage was set for the Mahoney Brothers, a trio of immensely talented siblings. Their act was nothing short of mesmerizing. They transported the audience through time with their thrilling cover songs and remarkable costume changes to match each era of music.
Three brothers, four decades of music, and all within a single unforgettable performance. Their sets included the crowd-pleasing “Jukebox Heroes,” which had everyone singing along, and the magical “Long Live the Beatles Tribute Show.” The park reverberated with music and joy, marking the perfect start to a weekend of celebration.
Saturday: A Day of Main Events
Saturday arrived with a burst of energy and a full roster of activities. The highly anticipated chicken BBQ dinner, hosted by none other than Bell & Evans chicken, was a highlight. Word had spread like wildfire, and attendees wasted no time securing their tickets for this delectable feast. Grilled to perfection, the chicken was tender and infused with rich, smoky flavors.
However, Hinklefest is not just about savoring delicious food; it’s also an opportunity for the community to showcase its talents. An intense cooking contest kicked off at 1 o’clock, with a dozen entries competing across various categories. The smell of sizzling creations filled the air, a testament to the culinary prowess of the participants.
For those who found joy in music and dance, Hinklefest had something special in store. The Northern Lebanon Alumni band took to the stage, performing classic tunes that brought back fond memories for many. The Jonestown Dance Studio showcased a dazzling array of dance moves, captivating the audience with their skill and artistry.
Inside the bustling bingo hall, community members eagerly tried their luck, hoping to win a few extra dollars. The atmosphere was electric as players intently watched their cards, hoping for the next number that would bring them closer to victory.
Saturday night belonged to The Uptown Band, described as an explosive, melodic, and grooving mix of jazz, pop, funk, rock, and R&B. The stage came alive with their dynamic performance, leaving the crowd dancing the night away. It was a perfect way to conclude a day filled with music, laughter, and delicious food.
Sunday: A Day of Spirituality and Music
As Sunday dawned, Hinklefest took on a more contemplative tone with a beautiful outdoor church service. Attendees gathered in unity to reflect, pray, and appreciate the blessings of community and togetherness. It was a reminder that Hinklefest is not just about entertainment but also a celebration of the values that bind a community together.
Following the service, the Double Trouble Elvis Gospel group, featuring father and son Elvis Tribute artists Jeff Krick Sr. and Jeff Krick Jr., was all set to take center stage and deliver a heartfelt performance featuring Elvis’s greatest gospel and secular hits. The crowd was eagerly anticipating the soulful melodies and timeless music.
However, nature had other plans for the grand finale event. Rainclouds rolled in unexpectedly, forcing the festival to conclude earlier than expected. It was a disappointing twist of fate that prevented the Elvis performance from taking place. Nevertheless, the rain couldn’t dampen the spirit of the weekend, which had been filled with joy, unity, and unforgettable moments.
A Festival with a Purpose
Beyond the joy and entertainment, Hinklefest serves a higher purpose. The proceeds from this beloved festival benefit several Fredericksburg organizations, including the Matthews Public Library, Community Association, Fire Company, American Legion Auxiliary, and Lion’s Club. It’s a testament to the community’s commitment to supporting its own, ensuring that the spirit of Hinklefest goes beyond the weekend celebration.
Sponsors That Make It Happen
Hinklefest wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of its sponsors. A heartfelt thank you goes out to Bell & Evans, Farmer Boy Ag, KL Harring Transportation, Sattazhan Refuse Removal, Lesher Truck Solutions, D.E. Richard Garage and Speedway Mart, Bird-In-Hand Farms, Stouffer Equipment Company, Fredericksburg Dental Center, Peters Brothers Trucking, Manada Construction Company, BG’s Value Market, Ditzler Physical Therapy, Fredericksburg Eagle Hotel, BSG Provisions, R&R Beer Distributors, Little Dutchman Trucking, Esther’s Restaurant, Farmer’s Pride Airport, and Koppy’s Propane.
In a world that constantly changes, traditions like Hinklefest remind us of the enduring power of community, music, and, of course, chicken. For 30 years, this festival
