The Arcola Broom Corn Festival is scheduled for this weekend in Arcola, Illinois, reigniting favorite annual customs cherished by locals, including Mayor Jesus Garza.
“The sweep contest, I wish I could win, I won a couple years ago,” Garza said. “People love it, and I love it too.”
The festival started in 1970 as a way to honor the city’s history of broom manufacturing and its former status as the broomcorn capital of the world.
“The city started growing with the factories, the broom factories are what they started working on,” Garza said.
This year, the city is taking its commitment to honoring nearby factories a step further with the grand opening of its new Broom Palace.
Within the venue, attendees can discover brooms, vintage factory machinery, and a stunning perspective of the city. Organizers indicate that this event has been planned for quite some time.
“We’ve dedicated several years to enhancing this city area and over a year on the palace, so it’s thrilling to present it to the community,” stated Tom Mulligan, superintendent of the Arcola School District.
Mulligan plans to retire at the end of the school year. This year, the festival honored him with a special title.
“Being chosen as the grand marshal for this fantastic festival is incredibly flattering,” Mulligan mentioned. “A local artist created a sketch of me, almost like a self-portrait, and it’s simply remarkable. Some people shared kind words about me as well.”
Mayor Garza says the title is well deserved.
“He’s greatly contributing to expanding housing options in Arcola, and we’re collaborating closely on those initiatives,” Garza expressed. “He will be missed dearly; his presence is truly appreciated.”
