Fremont pays tribute to its past by recognizing the Franciscan friars who settled in the area in 1894, planted olive trees, and shared their golden oils with the locals in their annual Olive Festival, hosted by the Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce.
For the last 17 years, Bay Area residents could attend the Olive festival to enjoy live music, food trucks, and many olive products. Around 2,000 people attend this event, which is solely based on giving back to the Fremont community.
Donald Kaefer of the San Jose Mission Chamber of Commerce, and festival organizer, said, “People can attend the event to see the grounds by the old mission or relax and enjoy family. Everybody’s invited.”
Festival goers also enjoy artisan goods and crafts for young folk.
Jake Rodenkirk, a local potter selling his creations said, “This festival brings the community together because people are always on their phones. Out here, they aren’t. My pottery brings in crowds, which is a good conversation starter.”
The vendors set up before 10 a.m. and close shop at 5 p.m. Many people attending the festival stop by the many booths, test the woodwork of bowls, and taste the various flavors of olive oil on sale.
A salesman working for Farm Fresh to You said, “The Olive Festival has a lot of attendees, so it is an optimal place to promote this business.”
The Olive Festival draws people together to enjoy the festivities, the creations, and the history of a vibrant community.
