Several thousand festival goers enjoyed a celebration of small town life at the Annual Marthaville Good Ole’ Days Festival, held this past weekend, September 27-28. This year’s Festival marks the 32nd anniversary of what has become one of our parish’s most beloved traditions. This year’s event was especially noteworthy in that the 18 musicians of the Marthaville Hawk Marching Band, under the direction of Ms. Kristina Ballard, made their inaugural parade appearance. Ms. Ballard is a NSU alumna and former member of the Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band.
While the parade was arguably the highlight of the festival, it was far from the only activity to choose from. There was antique car judging, a play area for children, performances by school dance and cheer groups, and two days of musical performances by a number of local singers. Alumni of the Marthaville High School class of 1974 and earlier classes ending in four were recognized.
The parade featured dozens of entries ranging from the first appearance of the Marthaville Hawk Marching Band to a range of office holders, as well as colorful church floats. The hometown Marthaville Hawk cheerleaders and spirit groups were joined by cheer groups from Provencal. The fire department, antique cars, and a full complement of area pageant queens rounded out the parade roster. Lifelong Marthaville resident and civic leader Arden Settle was joined in leading the parade as Grand Marshal by his wife Billie Sue Settle. Ms. Rayle Hays was the Horse Parade Grand Marshal
The Marthaville Good Ole’ Days Festival is a superb weekend of family fun and togetherness. It is small town America at its best!
