Patty Cooke has lived in Blythe for 30 years and the annual Blythe Fever festival has been on her calendar since she arrived.
“It has the old town spirit, and it hasn’t changed a lot over the years,” said Cooke, who attended the event Saturday. “You see people you’ve known for years that you may not see every day. It is just nice to have the comradery and the friendship. I’ve raised my kids here; they have participated in the parade, and it is just a fun event.”
Blythe Fever has been happening since 1979. This year, the town is celebrating the 102nd anniversary of its incorporation. Located in Richmond County, Blythe has a population less than 1,000 people. While a few of the attendees were from outside of Blythe, much of the crowd were people who lived there.
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Curt St. Germaine, Blythe’s mayor, said he was happy to see town members and others spend time together and enjoy the festival.
“It brings the community closer together,” he said. “It’s the camaraderie, neighbors meeting neighbors, plenty of vendors and free rides for the kids.”
This is Germaine’s first year as Mayor of Blythe, but he says he has attended the event before this.
“I have been fortunate enough to work the Blythe Fever when I worked in Burke County, and it is just great to have it back and seeing everyone having a good time,” he said.
The festival featured the annual parade, vendors, food, entertainment and amusement rides for the kids.
Members of the Augusta Fire Department, Burke County Sheriff’s Office and Richmond County Sheriff’s Office also attended the event.
The Cross Creek High School band and dance team also performed during the morning parade.
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Loriann Chancey, Blythe City Clerk, helps set up the event each year. After Blythe Fever was canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19 and had less people in 2021, she is glad to see people come out this year.
“It’s great to be back out an among people,” she said.
Chris Rickerson is a staff reporter covering Columbia County government and general assignment topics for The Augusta Press. Reach him at chris@theaugustapress.com.
