The North Benders have spoken. Their favorite party, “The Festival at Mount Si,” garnered the most votes for Best Local Event.

We asked Jill Massengill, Festival committee president, what makes this summer event, which returns August 9 to 11, so beloved.

What do you think makes the Fest at Mount Si special or stand out?

“I think it stands out as the longest-running and largest community event.   Generations of Valley families look forward to either attending for family fun, food, the parade and music, or they plan a party at their home that night for a barbecue picnic and spectacular fireworks show.”

How does it bring the community together?

It brings the community together through common interests.  Not only the events and family fun, but the efforts of many many people and business to participate in donating or volunteering to pull something of this magnitude off.

What’s your favorite part of the festival?

“My personal favorite part is the friendships I have made with a number of really super people that volunteer time and efforts AND the clean up party…..really!  I have never laughed so hard in my life. Sunday, August 11, at 4 p.m.—come check it out.”

What might you say to all the people who voted for this festival as their local favorite?

“Thank you for taking the time to vote for the Festival at Mount Si as your favorite Valley event.  I am glad you love and appreciate it as much as i do.  And we are always looking for helpers to either work a four-hour shift the weekend of the event or to help with the planning committee.

You can learn more about this year’s plans at http://www.festivalatmtsi.org/. The Festival returns to the streets and market area and lawn in front of Si View.

Locals are also invited to be a part of the fun by volunteering or joining the festival committee.