Podcast 282 – 25 Years After the Storm and the Legacy of Lemonade Days – Kathy Florence and Hope Follmer

After a tornado ripped through Dunwoody in 1998, neighbors came together to replant, rebuild, and reconnect. What started as a tree-planting campaign grew into something lasting—Lemonade Days, the city’s biggest celebration of resilience and community. Now in its 25th year, the festival continues to evolve while honoring its roots. Hope Follmer, who directs the festival for the Dunwoody Preservation Trust, and Kathy Florence, Communications Manager for the City and a former Honorary Miss Lemonade Days, have helped shape this milestone year. From carnival rides and food trucks to new features like chalk art, legacy lanyards, and local bands performing at the new Band Shell, 2025 feels like a perfect blend of nostalgia and new energy. While I won’t be emceeing Dunwoody Idol this year, the heartbeat of the festival is stronger than ever. Whether you’ve lived here for decades or you’re new to town, this is the week that reminds you of that small town feel we love.

🗓️ April 23–27 at Brook Run Park 🌐 More info: whatsupdunwoody.com/LemonadeDays

What’s Up Dunwoody Links:

📅 Local events around the city. whatsupdunwoody.com/events

🍔 Dunwoody restaurant guide. whatsupdunwoody.com/food

📍 Find local businesses. whatsupdunwoody.com/local

🏠 Homes for sale. whatsupdunwoody.com/homes

🇺🇸 Participate in the Parade. whatsupdunwoody.com/parade

🛎️ Book a hotel staycation here. whatsupdunwoody.com/hotels

🦷 Best orthodontist in town. whatsupdunwoody.com/village

🙋‍♂️ Get to know Matt. whatsupdunwoody.com/matt

🎧 All the podcast episodes. whatsupdunwoody.com/podcasts

📖 Origin story of the podcast. whatsupdunwoody.com/origins

👕 What’s Up Dunwoody merch. whatsupdunwoody.com/merch