The first event of its kind, the Norco 100 Festival on Saturday, Oct. 4 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. will celebrate the town’s centennial milestone in the heart of downtown Norco.
The event, which is organized by the Norco Civic Association, is free and open to the public.
Kiki Mannear, a member of the Norco Civic Association and the festival committee, said attendees can expect a vibrant, family friendly festival.
“This festival is for Norco, by Norco,” Mannear said. “Past, present, and future residents should know that this is a celebration of Norco’s history, community spirit and resilience.”
The event will feature live performances from local musicians and bands, and a variety of food options, including Cajun classics and festival treats provided by local restaurants, businesses and vendors. The festival will also highlight Norco’s culture and industry, and will include arts and crafts booths, hands-on demonstrations, and more.
The town of Norco was founded in 1925, and the festival will honor the 100-year history with interactive historical exhibits, storytelling stations and archival photo displays. The festival committee encouraged residents to submit memorability and photographs of life in Norco over the past century to the Norco Civic Association.
Mannear said the festival’s theme, “River, Refinery & Revelry,” captures the essence of Norco’s past, present and future.
“The festival is both a nod to the town’s resilience and a joyful invitation to look forward,” she said. “This centennial isn’t just about marking a date – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to celebrate the families, businesses and stories that have defined Norco over generations.”
Mannear said the Norco Civic Association’s mission is to strengthen community ties, celebrate the town’s history and promote local pride. The centennial festival reflects that commitment, she said.
The festival will span 1st Street and River Road between St. Charles Street and Apple Street. Tickets are not required, but attendees are encouraged to RSVP on the Norco Civic Association’s Facebook event page to help the committee better plan the event.
Mannear said the festival committee expects more than 30 vendors at the event, and the committee will prioritize local businesses that have shaped Norco’s economy and culture. Vendor applications are due Aug. 10.
Vending spaces are 10 feet by 10 feet and free to reserve, but vendors must include an interactive component at their booth. Those can include a hands-on activity, a live demo or a fun game. Vendors are also responsible for their own setup, and they must comply with parish guidelines.
“We want our vendors to share their products and information while also engaging with the community to create lasting memories,” Mannear said. “Vendors are a crucial part of making the festival dynamic and engaging.”
Vending information can be found on the Norco Civic Association’s Facebook page and through the group event on Facebook. Anyone with questions is encouraged to email Mannear at k_mannear@yahoo.com.
Bruce Hotard, a festival committee member, said the goal of the festival is to create a lasting sense of pride and connection.
“The festival’s vision is about more than just a day of fun,” Hotard said. “We hope people walk away with a deeper appreciation of Norco’s roots, the strength of our community and a renewed excitement for what lies ahead.”
For many on the festival committee, the event is a deeply personal labor of love. Mannear said her grandparents helped grow Norco, with the Western Auto in the community for decades.
“Many of us grew up here, and some of us have parents and grandparents who helped build this town,” Mannear said. “To be part of commemorating 100 years is incredibly meaningful. It’s a way to honor our ancestors’ hard work and make sure future generations know and appreciate the rich tapestry that makes Norco so special.”
