June 19 -21, 2025
Welcome to the London Strawberry Festival—a three-day celebration that has been a cornerstone of our community since the mid-1980s. Our festival is a vibrant mix of live music, delicious food, fun contests, and a pageant that crowns our festival royalty. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of London, bringing together families, local businesses, and residents for an event that promises tradition, memories, and community growth.
What you can expect when you visit the London Strawberry Festival
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration that brings the best of our community together! At the London Strawberry Festival, you’ll experience:
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Local Food & Craft Vendors:
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Enjoy a wide array of food and craft vendors featuring unique local creations. Every food vendor offers at least one delicious strawberry-flavored item on their menu—bringing a sweet twist to your favorite dishes.
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Discover handcrafted items from local artisans that capture the spirit and creativity of our community.
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Pageant & Royalty Crowning:
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Witness the excitement and elegance of our annual pageant as we crown festival royalty—a highlight that celebrates local talent, charm, and community pride.
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Vibrant Parade:
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Cap off the festival with a lively parade along Main Street. Experience the energy of floats, performers, and community groups as local businesses join the celebration by opening their doors and showcasing special offers.
Family Fun & Kid-Friendly Attractions:
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Enjoy a host of games, contests open to everyone, and attractions designed specifically for kids. There’s something for every age, making the festival a perfect family outing.
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Community Contests & Engagement:
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Participate in fun contests throughout the event, where everyone gets a chance to join in and win exciting prizes.
The London Strawberry Festival is all about celebrating local flavor, community spirit, and the timeless tradition of coming together for fun and unity. We can’t wait for you to join us in this fun-filled celebration!
London Strawberry Festival – 2025 Event Schedule
Thursday, June 19
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6:00 AM – Streets close for set up
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4:00 PM – 9:00 PM – Registration for contests
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5:00 PM – Opening Ceremonies
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6:00 PM – Baby Contest on Main Stage
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6:45 PM – Pageants Start on Main Stage
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10:00 PM – Festival Closes
Friday, June 20
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11:00 AM – Festival Opens for the Day
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2:00 PM – The Wayward J’s on Stage
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5:00 PM – Black Water Road on Stage
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6:00 PM – Car and Motorcycle Show
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8:00 PM – Lake Effect on Stage
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9:00 PM – Car Show Awards
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10:00 PM – Festival Closes
Saturday, June 21
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9:00 AM – Festival Opens
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9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Strawberry Idol Contest on Stage
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10:00 AM – 3:00 PM – Cobra Charity Rides
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12:30 PM – Queen’s Luncheon
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4:00 PM – Parade
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5:00(ish) PM – Royalty Introductions
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6:00 PM – 9:30 PM – Pick Up Contest Entries at the Info Booth
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6:00 PM – Andi Jo on Stage
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7:00 PM – 50/50 Raffle Winner Announced
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9:00 PM – Festival Closes for the Year
Food Vendor Guide
Check out the food vendors coming this year and the special strawberry-themed items they are offering! Plan your visit so you can hit all the vendors you're excited about while you participate in all the activities we have to offer for you and your family.
Frozen Treats/Ice Cream/Smoothies/Slushies
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MILLER CONCESSIONS - STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM
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SWEET TREAT TROLLY - STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM
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CARRICO'S CONCESSIONS - STRAWBERRY SHAKE UPS
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FLATBREAD PIZZA IMPRESSIONS - STRAWBERRY SLUSHIES
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DOUBLE E COFFEE CO - STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIES
Beverages
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J.R. CONCESSIONS - STRAWBERRY LEMONADE
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CHESTER'S CONCESSIONS - STRAWBERRY LEMONADE
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G&G CONCESSIONS - STRAWBERRY ICE TEA
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JUMBO ICE TEA - STRAWBERRY ICE TEA
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KONA ICE - STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE FLAVOR SHAVED ICE
Desserts/Sweets/Baked Goods
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CATE'S STEAKHOUSE CATERING FOOD TRUCKS - STRAWBERRY FRY BREAD DESSERT
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FLATBREAD PIZZA IMPRESSIONS - STRAWBERRY CINNAMON ROLLS
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LIT LITTY'S FOOD TRAILER - CHOCOLATE DIPPED FRIED STRAWBERRY BITS
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M & M DOS - STRAWBERRY CHURROS AND STRAWBERRY EMPANADA
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THE ROLLING LEMON BEVERAGE COMPANY - STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE MINI DONUTS
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SWEET STATION - STRAWBERRY TIRAMISU
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MOORE VENDING - STRAWBERRY PRETZEL
Savory/Meals/BBQ
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GRAHAM SLAM FOOD TRUCK - STRAWBERRY BBQ CHICKEN SLIDER
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CHESTERS CONCESSIONS - STRAWBERRY BBQ SAUCE
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CHADDANOOGA BBQ & CATERING - STRAWBERRY BBQ SAUCE
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EXSPUDITIONS - STRAWBERRY BACON JAM & STRAWBERRY POTATO CANDY
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THE LITTLE'S GRILL GOURMET BURGERS & MORE - STRAWBERRY PIZZA, STRAWBERRY CHICKEN SALAD
Additional Vendors with Strawberry Flavor Options
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LOUSIANA GRILL
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ROLLING STOVES PIZZA
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London Strawberry Festival Parade Registration Now Open!
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Parade Date: Saturday, June 21st
Line-Up Begins: 3:00 PM at Cowling Park
Parade Starts: 4:00 PM
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We’re thrilled to invite businesses, organizations, performers, and community groups to be part of this year’s London Strawberry Festival Parade! This hometown favorite draws a crowd and is a highlight of the weekend. Whether you're walking, rolling, dancing, or decorating a float—we want you in the lineup!
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Parade Route:
The route will follow the same path as previous years:
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Line-up at Cowling Park (Main Street)
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Proceed up Main Street to High Street
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Turn onto High Street
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Conclude at Walnut Street
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Registration is FREE
All participants must register in advance to receive a line-up spot. You’ll be assigned your position when you check in at Cowling Park on parade day. Line-up begins promptly at 3:00 PM, following the wrap-up of the Cobra car show. The parade will step off at 4:00 PM sharp!
Parade Guidelines – Please Read Carefully
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants and spectators, all parade entries must follow the guidelines below:
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Vehicle Safety Requirements
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No one may sit on the hood, roof, or fenders of any vehicle.
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Participants may stand in the back of a truck, stand through a sunroof, or sit on the back seat of a convertible.
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All riders must remain safely seated or standing in secure areas—no climbing or hanging off vehicles.
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Distribution Rules
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Nothing may be thrown from vehicles or floats—this includes candy, flyers, or giveaways.
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No printed materials may be handed out along the route.
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Keep It Moving
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All entries must maintain a slow, continuous pace.
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No stopping for performances, photos, or crowd interaction along the route.
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General Conduct
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All entries must be family-friendly.
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All drivers must be licensed and insured, and vehicles must be in good working condition.
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Liability & Compliance
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Parade organizers reserve the right to remove any entry not following rules.
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By participating, all entrants agree to assume full responsibility for their entry's safety and behavior.
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We can’t wait to see this year’s creativity, community spirit, and strawberry-themed fun on parade day!
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Classic Car and Motorcycle Show
On Friday evening, we will have a classic car and motorcycle show, including trophies for the best in several categories, as well as a 50/50 raffle and live music.
Live Music
Throughout the festival, multiple local bands will perform on our main stage. You can hear family-friendly music throughout the festival grounds.
Strawberry Idol
June 21 | 9:00 AM–11:00 AM | Main Stage
Check-in begins at 8:00 AM
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Think you’ve got the voice to win it all?
Join us for the first-ever Strawberry Idol — a live singing competition to find the best vocalist in London, Ohio! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just love to sing your heart out, this is your moment to shine.
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About the Competition
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Open to singers of all ages
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Each contestant must provide their own karaoke-style track (MP3 file on USB drive or emailed in advance)
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Sound system provided on the Main Stage
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Performances must be family-friendly — no explicit language or themes, no violence, hate speech, discrimination, or sexual content will be allowed
Want to stand out? Judges will award extra points for performances that include a Strawberry theme — whether it’s your song choice, outfit, props, or a creative twist to your stage presence!
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Age Categories
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Strawberry Buds: Ages 5–12
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Strawberry Blooms: Ages 13–17
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Strawberry Harvest: Ages 18–34
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Strawberry Vintage: Ages 35+
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Winners will be crowned in each age category and will receive:
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A trophy or plaque
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Strawberry-themed prize bundle
Registration for 2025 is closed.
Pageant and Royalty Crowning
After the opening ceremonies on Thursday evening, we will hold pageants for all ages from birth to eighteen. Multiple awards are given out to different age groups, and crowns are awarded to older groups. Crowned royalty represent the London Strawberry Festival all over Ohio at other festivals and events throughout the year. Crowned royalty earn scholarships as part of the contest awards. On Saturday afternoon, before the parade, the London Strawberry Festival Queen and her court from the year before host other royalty from all over the state for a special luncheon to celebrate a successful year before the newly crowned court step into their roles. Both royalty sets headline the parade closing the festival on Saturday evening.
Be a Part of the Magic as a Volunteer
Be part of the magic. Make a difference. Have some fun.
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The London Strawberry Festival wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of volunteers—individuals, families, students, and local groups who come together to help bring this community tradition to life.
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This year, we’re excited to welcome you into a new chapter.
With an all-new leadership team, we’re focused on bringing fresh energy, greater organization, and a renewed sense of pride to the festival. We would love the opportunity to show you just how much has changed—and how your involvement can help us make this event something truly special.
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Whether you’re looking to get involved, give back, earn service hours, or represent your organization, there’s a place for you here.
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Volunteer Areas
We’re currently seeking help in the following areas:
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Strawberry Tent – Help serve up the festival’s namesake treats and keep things running smoothly in one of our busiest spots.
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Beer Tent – For volunteers age 21 and up. Assist with beverage service, wristbands, and crowd flow (must be comfortable in a fast-paced environment).
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Set-Up & Tear-Down Crew – Join the team that makes it all happen behind the scenes. Help with tents, tables, signage, and event materials.
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Who Can Volunteer?
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Individuals – Jump in and help where it’s needed most.
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Students – Earn community service hours and get documentation for your school.
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Groups & Organizations – Clubs, sports teams, scout troops, church groups, and businesses are all encouraged to get involved together.
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If you're a business or organization looking to support the festival but unable to give financially, sending a team of volunteers is a great way to contribute—and your support will be recognized throughout the event.
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Why Volunteer?
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Give back to your community
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Be part of a beloved local tradition
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Make new connections and have a great time
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Earn volunteer hours and service credit
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Represent your group or business in a meaningful way
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Help us show what the Strawberry Festival is capable of with community-powered momentum
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This year is about rebuilding trust, renewing excitement, and reigniting community pride—and we can’t do that without you. Volunteering is one of the best ways to see the difference for yourself and be part of making the festival great again.
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Ready to Help?
Volunteers will be scheduled based on availability and interest. You’ll receive communication ahead of time with your assigned shift and any specific instructions.
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All volunteers must complete the form to be registered.
If you’re under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your waiver.
Our Vision
We envision a festival that serves as a beacon of community pride, celebrating heritage, fostering local growth, and building lasting connections.
Our Mission
Our mission is to restore the London Strawberry Festival as a source of pride, unity, and joy for our community by honoring tradition and embracing positive change.
Appreciation for our past and inspiration for our future
The London Marigold Festival began in 1983 and quickly became a beloved community event, bringing residents together for entertainment, food, and festivities. Over the years, it grew in size and popularity, with local organizations contributing to its success. However, after five years, the festival was relocated, which led to declining attendance and community interest. Despite efforts to keep it alive, by 2000, the festival was struggling, prompting a group of dedicated volunteers to step in with fresh ideas and renewed enthusiasm.
To revitalize the event, organizers proposed transforming it into the London Strawberry Festival, moving it to June, and bringing it back to downtown London. With unanimous approval from the Ohio Festivals and Events Association and London City Council, the festival underwent a major transformation. The first London Strawberry Festival launched in 2001, featuring expanded entertainment, contests, parades, and a record-breaking Cobra Sports Car Show. The event quickly gained recognition, drawing visitors from across the region and securing its place as a celebrated tradition in central Ohio.
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With past challenges behind us, our new Board of Directors is dedicated to restoring the festival’s original spirit while paving the way for a bright future. We’re focused on community engagement, local pride, and ethical decision-making. Today, we are revitalizing our legacy with a commitment to ethical practices and community transparency.
In Partnership with the London Cobra Show on Saturday, June 21st
Start your Saturday with an exclusive automotive showcase in partnership with the London Cobra Show:
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Car Parade:
Kick off the day at 9 AM on Saturday as the legendary Cobras roll into town, leading a high-energy parade that sets the festive tone.
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Cobra Rides:
For just $10, take a thrilling ride in a Cobra along a short track featuring an exhilarating drag start. All ride proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, making your adrenaline rush even more meaningful.
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Free Walk-Through Car Show:
Enjoy a complimentary car show located right in front of the courthouse, directly across the street from the festival. Stroll through and admire a stunning display of classic and custom Cobras at your leisure.
Experience the perfect blend of high-octane excitement and community spirit with the London Cobra Show—an unmissable highlight of our festival!
