Brunswick Stew Festival for the 17th Street Farmers’ Market
Event Overview
Each year the 17th Street Farmers’ Market and Echelon co-produce two signature events that help meet the mission of this homegrown Richmond non-profit. The Annual Shockoe Tomato Festival pays homage to everyone’s favorite fruit, while the Brunswick Stew Festival celebrates the culinary delight of this famous concoction and determines the crews who have created the most delicious pots of Brunswick Stew. First started in the year 2000 by Mrs. Fearnow’s, the event has grown to have major sponsors in Ukrops and First Market Bank and the Most Original and Traditional Stews are highly coveted titles. The Brunswick Stew Festival brings in over 15,000 event goers and features art contests, kid’s activities and the amazing vendors the market hosts throughout the growing season.
Echelon’s Role
- Coordinate all permitting and involvement with Parks & Recreation and City Manager’s Office, Health Department and Richmond Police Department
- Promotion and advertising through local radio and print outlets
- Recruitment and management of 30+ stew crews
- All logistics and equipment rentals, set-up and teardown
- Event layout and mapping of vendors, crews and special attractions
- Manage all contest-related promotions and activities
- Recruitment and management of judges for stew contest, as well as art contests
- Create and execute signage plan