Isn't That Rich Podcast

Every Memorial Day weekend, something incredible happens in Herrin, Illinois. The quiet streets of this small Southern Illinois town suddenly buzz with life. Food vendors set up shop. Children beg for another ride on the Ferris wheel. Families fill the sidewalks in anticipation of the grand parade. And for one week, Herrin becomes the epicenter of community pride, cultural heritage, and serious economic activity.

We sat down with Joey Helleny and Kelly Green, co-chairs of HerrinFesta Italiana, to learn more about what it takes to put on the region's biggest festival—and why it matters far beyond the carnival lights.

A Festival That Started With an Accordion

The origin of HerrinFesta is as humble as they come: a small gathering sparked by a Chamber of Commerce retreat over three decades ago. Inspired by Herrin's Italian roots, the first Festa featured a carnival and a single performer—John Denowski on accordion—playing on the Civic Center steps. That modest beginning lit a spark that would ignite a 35-year tradition and draw in tens of thousands of visitors annually.

34 Years of Service and a Leadership Duo

Joey Helleny has been with HerrinFesta since its second year. Kelly Green started later as a volunteer chair and worked her way up to secretary-treasurer before being named co-chair. Together, they lead a team of around 12 core committee members and coordinate more than 100 volunteers who pull off this massive event.

"We’re more like traffic cops than directors," Joey laughed. "The real credit goes to our committee leaders and volunteers who make the magic happen."

When Does Planning Begin? (Spoiler: It Never Really Ends)

Planning for next year’s HerrinFesta begins during the current one. Notes get scribbled in the festival office: What worked? What didn’t? What ideas are worth trying next time? After a short breather to catch up on bills, the team regroups to start planning in earnest, using both community feedback and internal reflection to improve year after year.

Kelly hinted at exciting changes to come—new programming for kids rooted in Italian heritage, nods to the past, and creative ways to involve more families. The planning may never stop, but neither does the passion.

The Economics Behind the Entertainment

Let’s get to the numbers: last year, HerrinFesta brought in 69,000 unique visitors, according to cell phone tracking data from Visit SI. Over 3,100 of those came from more than 50 miles away meaning they likely spent money on food, gas, and lodging.

Even modest spending estimates tell a big story. If each of those out-of-town guests spent $200, that's over $600,000 funneled into the local economy in just a few days. Restaurants in nearby Marion stay packed. Gas stations buzz. Hotels fill up. Shops see increased foot traffic. And that’s just the direct impact.

"That money bounces around the community about seven times," Kelly explained, referencing the economic multiplier effect. "It touches everything."

Volunteers: The Heart of HerrinFesta

It takes over 100 volunteers to make HerrinFesta happen. From bocce tournaments to golf scrambles, each segment has its own dedicated crew, many of whom have been involved for years.

"It’s not just about showing up on the weekend," Kelly said. "A lot of people are putting in work weeks or even months in advance."

Organizations like FBLA help with events, the House of Hope assists with cleanup, and local groups like the Herrin Women’s Club run information booths. It’s a web of collaboration that reflects what small-town pride looks like in action.

Goodbye Big Bands, Hello Sustainable Fun

In years past, HerrinFesta was known for bringing in major musical acts like REO Speedwagon, Florida Georgia Line, and even the Beach Boys graced the stage. But with rising costs (some acts now demand over $100,000), increasing competition from other venues, and fewer volunteers, the committee pivoted.

Now, the focus is on free, accessible entertainment under the big tent sponsored by community partners like Farmers State Bank. It’s a model that encourages more families to attend and significantly reduces financial risk.

"It was a necessary shift," Joey said. "And honestly, it’s a better fit for the community today."

Community Investment That Lasts Beyond One Week

HerrinFesta isn’t just a party—it’s a financial engine. The event helps fund:

• Scholarships for Herrin High School students, including new initiatives like the Century Club.

• Donations to local nonprofits such as the Herrin House of Hope, FBLA, and the Veterans' Haven.

• Upkeep for the bocce courts, used all year by the Herrin Bocce Club.

• Fireworks for July 4th, ensuring continued celebration for all residents.

This isn't a one-week splash. It's year-round support that strengthens the community long after the tents come down.

Sponsors That Truly Partner

Over 50 local sponsors help fund the festival, and HerrinFesta makes sure they’re more than just names on a banner. Sponsors are invited to exclusive networking events like the corporate bocce tournament and sponsor dinner. They’re encouraged to activate their investment—whether that means bringing employees to the parade or hosting a booth.

"It’s a real partnership," said Kelly. "And Nina and the team make sure sponsors feel seen, valued, and involved."

Honoring the Past, Building the Future

Herrin is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, and Festa is at the heart of the celebration. From storytelling events through the new Herrin Heritage Club to international connections with sister city Cuggiono, Italy, the city is embracing its roots in ways that educate and inspire the next generation.

"I’m an IBMer," Kelly joked. "Italian by marriage. But I’m proud to help share this history—so our kids know where they come from."

Join the Party—Or the Planning

HerrinFesta Italiana is a celebration of food, fun, and family. But at its core, it’s a celebration of what happens when a community comes together—not just to throw a great party, but to reinvest in its people, its businesses, and its future.

Want to get involved? Visit herrinfesta.com or email [email protected] to volunteer. Whether you're good at spreadsheets or funnel cakes, there's a spot for you.

And who knows? You might just find yourself onstage announcing a trip to Italy—or dragging a country star out of a dive bar.

Because in Herrin, anything can happen when the Festa rolls into town.