Paris, Tenn.–Meeting Monday morning, the Henry County Tourism Authority approved funds for two upcoming events: the annual Paris-Kiwanis Club Arts & Crafts Festival in September and the Crappie USA Classic in October.
The Arts & Crafts Festival is set for September 11-12 at Paris Landing State Park and the Tourism board approved its request for $1,500 for the event. Organizers said the event showcases local and area talents and the money generated is donated to local organizations whose mission is dedicated to the care and growth of children.
Over 100 vendors are on hand, with average attendance at 750 a day and organizers noted attendance increases each year.
The Crappie USA Classic is a four-day event from October 12-15 at Paris Landing State Park and draws anglers (and their families) from 16 states.
Organizers had requested $72,500, but their request was approved at $55,000 by the Tourism Authority.
Paris-Henry County Chamber CEO Travis McLeese noted that the local Tourism Authority hosts national tournaments for bass and crappie and he said this is a sign “that we are making significant improvement to our fishery. It’s nice to see the fruit of our labors.”
Crappie USA Classic organizers said the event will be broadcast on its You Tube Channel and on the Pursuit channel and includes a purse of $165,000 in cash and prizes.
It draws anglers to Paris and Henry County on multiple occasions, to practice for the tournament and to participate in it.
Organizers said the Paris Landing location “is one of the better stops on the tournament trail” and estimated the economic impact to our area exceeds $1M a year.
Photo: Scene from the 2019 Arts & Crafts Festival.