The inaugural Sirena Fest was held in October 2017, with Keep Salado Beautiful as the designated beneficiary of the festival's fundraising efforts. This event was the brain-child of local entrepreneur Tiffany Schreiner-Humphrey. The Village of Salado and the Chamber of Commerce were both key in the success of the event. The goals of Sirena Fest are to honor the Legend of Sirena, share the wonder of Salado with others, educate children about creek habitat and wildlife (conservation), as well as raise money for a local non-profit. Keep Salado Beautiful was a perfect beneficiary as their goals lined up with Sirena Fest's. KSB committed to using the $4,000 raised to projects along Salado Creek, to include the butterfly habitat and new park area.
Sirena Fest efforts included a Mermaid Ambassador Brunch, a reception for Jackie Mills and Troy Kelley - the author and sculptor of the famous Sirena of Salado, and a parade and festival. The parade focused on children's participation with entries being no larger than a golf cart. The creative minds of Salado came out in full force with beautiful, whimsical ideas manifested. The festival included vendors, food trucks, artisans, scientists, educators, conservation activists, and the Temple Children's Museum. Circus Picnic, a troupe from Austin, added to the event with real-live-mermaids, stilt walkers, bubbles, and jugglers. Over 2,000 people were reported to have attended the inaugural event.
Sirena Fest efforts included a Mermaid Ambassador Brunch, a reception for Jackie Mills and Troy Kelley - the author and sculptor of the famous Sirena of Salado, and a parade and festival. The parade focused on children's participation with entries being no larger than a golf cart. The creative minds of Salado came out in full force with beautiful, whimsical ideas manifested. The festival included vendors, food trucks, artisans, scientists, educators, conservation activists, and the Temple Children's Museum. Circus Picnic, a troupe from Austin, added to the event with real-live-mermaids, stilt walkers, bubbles, and jugglers. Over 2,000 people were reported to have attended the inaugural event.
