Community celebrates New Ellenton

Residents of New Ellenton came together Saturday to celebrate unity and enjoy the community.

The Annual Atomic City Fest brought a fair-like atmosphere to New Ellenton that included midway rides and vendors. The festival had South Carolina vendors in from as far away as St. Matthew and even featured a vendor from North Carolina.

“We’ve been here a long time,” said New Ellenton City Councilman David Dunbar Sr. “The festival is here to show residents that we are moving forward. We want to give back to the community members and just enjoy living in the city of New Ellenton.”

The first showcase of the event was a karate demonstration from Mike Hess Karate’s demo team. Parents gathered in the bleachers with hoodies and scarves against the cool wind to watch the high-flying, board-breaking show.

Event organizers said they expected about 2,000 to attend throughout the day, and said they have exceeded that number in previous years. They also said the busiest time of the day is usually at night for the fireworks.

“The festival is about bringing the community together and building together,” said festival organizer Maria Timimi-Bush. “It’s good just to get out and enjoy one another’s company.”