Texarkana welcomed something new this fall: Pickle Fest, the city’s first all-things-pickle celebration held September 13th at Front Street Festival Plaza. The day was filled with vendors, food trucks, live music, fun contests, and plenty for families to enjoy. The best part? Admission and parking were free, making it easy for people across the region to drop by and experience the fest. Organizers estimated attendance of around 8,000 people but had a crowd of 15,000! Events like Pickle Fest aren’t just about food or fun—they’re a chance to highlight downtown, drive foot traffic, promote local businesses, and create new traditions for our city. I spoke with Monica Beeman, Head Pickle & Founder of Pickle Fest Texarkana, about her marketing strategy for the event. Here's what she said: "For me the strategy was to make sure that Pickle Fest TXK was in your newsfeed on all social media platforms and through TV and radio at all times. I brought the human side to social media, that resonated with followers!"
|
Marketing Efforts:
Social media: Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
Traditional media: TV & radio
Local podcast: Joe Teel Podcast
ROI: 28%
Monica added this:
"It really wasn't about financial gain for anyone. The community ROI was amazing! The value it brought to the community is what I'm proud of! Economic boost, tourism exposure, community pride, etc."