Chassell Strawberry Festival returns for its 66th year

It was another successful Strawberry Festival for the Chassell Lions this past weekend.

Crane Berry Farm was the winner of the Strawberry Sweepstakes and owner Dan Crane says this year’s crops were very good despite the weather conditions.

“So far, the berry season has been very, very good. It started a little bit late because of the cold weather, but we’ve had a lot of rain, so the berries are a really good size now and it just timed perfectly for the festival,” Crane said.

Vendors were filled throughout Centennial Park, including Paul Werner from Bonnie’s Bakery. He says it’s the first year that Bonnie’s is involved and it’s due to the festival’s positive reputation.

“We heard about the Strawberry Festival through various chamber of commerce and tourist bureaus and we understand it’s a very well attended festival, so we thought we’d participate in it,” Werner said.

A new Strawberry Queen was crowned as well, and the honor went to Shawnia Taisto from L’Anse. She says she’s very honored to receive the title.

“This Strawberry Festival means a lot to me because this is actually my first one. I have never been here before and I think it’s such a great thing for the community, and I’ll be happy to come back next year and years after that,” said Taisto.

After the Lions 5K Fun Run Saturday morning, residents surrounded US-41 to enjoy the Strawberry Festival parade.

Looks like this event will continue to be one of the longest–running festivals in the entire state.