Fund supports harbor festival to help promote the city
There was great joy when Annette Mortensen from Asaa Boldklub recently received news that the club can look forward to a donation of DKK 15,000 from the Sol og Strand Foundation Sol og Strand Margit and Kjeld.
The money will be used for children's entertainment in connection with the annual harbor festival, which this year takes place on Saturday, July 27.
"We are delighted – with this donation, we can provide entertainment for the children and, importantly, avoid user fees, which is something I feel very strongly about. Regardless of financial means, everyone should have the opportunity to have a fun and enjoyable day, says Annette Mortensen, who joined the soccer club's board when her father, Jørgen Mortensen, passed away just over five years ago.
"I inherited the task, so to speak—my father was one of the coordinators for the festival, and I showed up at the first meeting after his death to hand over the ring binder with the papers, but there was glue on the chair, and I ended up staying," she says, sounding as if she has absolutely no objection to the job.
The festival has grown considerably in scope and activities since it was established 11 years ago. It started as a flea market with a funfair, music, and a beer tent at Asaa Racecourse—after which the concept was changed and the event moved to Asaa Harbor. This revived an old tradition, as local fishing associations used to hold harbor festivals in maritime settings.
"We have a beautiful and unique harbor, and we want to promote it to the outside world and show how much Asaa has to offer," says Annette Mortensen.
There is a packed program with music at several locations around the harbor, food stalls, arts and crafts, children's entertainment, water activities, etc. There is also a booth where interested visitors can learn more about the delights of Asaa.
"We want to create a celebration for the local community and tourists, while also showcasing our city to potential new residents," says Annette Mortensen.
More than 80 volunteers are involved in the festival on the day itself, and the event helps to strengthen community spirit in the town.
"There is a very special atmosphere in the city on this day. You are met with nothing but good energy and a sense of community. That is something I personally appreciate," she says.