Fog Fest: A Unique Pacifica Celebration – Essay by Erik Piro
Erik Piro from Pacifica won second place in the first annual Essay Contest 2018.
Fog…it’s a mysterious phenomenon of nature. Sometimes it rolls into Pacifica quickly, while at other times it slowly creeps in from afar. It hugs our coastal shores, hangs in the valleys, and other times lingers around for a few more minutes than anticipated. It’s a friend to some people and a foe to others. However, one thing that fog is to everyone is a cause for celebration every September during the Pacific Coast Fog Fest!
People are amazed at how fog is celebrated during Fog Fest each year. During its weekend celebration, fog becomes a living form that binds Pacifica together in a number of ways that are unique to Pacifica.
Fog Fest celebrates life in Pacifica. During the Fog Fest, residents as well as local businesses celebrate life together with a wide variety of local music, food and beverage, arts and crafts and activities. A true sense of community is displayed during the whimsical Fog Fest Parade where the fog calls on its friend, the mermaid, to lead the lively procession. Fog inspires the famous Fog Cutter drink that is enjoyed by festival goers and winds its way into arts and crafts available for purchase. It encourages families to have fun together during the Family Fun Fest where a variety of games and activities encourage everyone to play.
Fog Fest connects people, even just for one weekend. Fog Fest is that special time of year when a large majority of the town comes out to enjoy the festivities. Even visitors from out of town and from across the U.S. make the journey to Pacifica, often in curiosity of just how fog is celebrated. It’s a weekend of fun with family, friends, neighbors, and those that you might not have seen for many years, providing a chance to catch up with life. Some people shop, others eat and drink, some dance to the live music, and others play at the Family Fun Fest. No matter what people do, everyone has a good time together as a community.
Finally, Fog Fest inspires creativity. Whether it is a colorful float in the parade or one of the hundreds of arts and crafts booths, creativity shines at the Fog Fest. Festival goers truly are treated to a sight and sound spectacle. From the moment festival goers enter the festival zone, live music fills the air. Local musicians of all musical genres get the crowds dancing with some of their favorite songs. Yes, dancing in the street really does happen in Pacifica! Continuing to walk past the multiple stages of music, local and national artists display custom made and one of a kind gifts, including custom photography, jewelry, fashion apparel, glass, sculptures, and much more. Some of these artistic gifts are inspired by the fog while others beckon the sun or the beautiful California coastline. The Fog Fest is the perfect place to treat yourself to something special or start your holiday shopping a bit early. Of course, one can’t forget to make a stop at the giant sand sculpture to gaze in awe at the sandy masterpiece or the photo contest exhibit that showcases amazing photos that capture the essence of life in Pacifica. No matter where you turn at Fog Fest, there is always something that will capture your eyes and perk up your ears.
So, just like the fog that comes and goes into town, another Fog Fest will soon vanish. However, the good times and celebrations of this unique festival will be remembered and will be something to look forward to again next year. Happy Fog Fest, Pacifica!
