History of the Chesapeake Jubilee
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Lt. Glen Askew of Chesapeake Fire
Department lights 20 gas candles on an 8-foot birthday cake during
the opening ceremonies of the first Chesapeake Jubilee, May 14,
1983.
Copyright (c) 1983, The
Virginian-Pilot. Reprinted with permission. |
Happy Birthday Chesapeake! That was the idea in 1982 when the idea
for the first
Jubilee was hatched.
The City was turning 20 years old, and the Chesapeake Chamber of
Commerce was looking for a way to celebrate in style.
At a retreat, former mayor Marian Whitehurst said the city needed a
way to celebrate. She became our first chairman.
The Jubilee was held at Greenbrier Mall in May of 1983. One of the
highlights was a huge birthday cake built by Chesapeake’s
firefighters. The candles were lit by gas.
Fire Chief Buddy Bagley made arrangements for fireworks and has
been in charge of them ever since.
The Chesapeake 4-H livestock show and sale have
always been an integral part of the Jubilee. The youth of Chesapeake
have been well served by the educational experience of the 4-H.
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| Buddy Bagley |
The event could not have taken place without the help of
volunteers, community groups, city staff, and police, fire and
sheriff’s departments. That tradition continues.
After three years, the Jubilee was moved to its present location at
City Park. In 2003, the Buddy Bagley stage was dedicated and its
beauty is a source of pride.
This stage was made possible through the
donations and workmanship of local businesses. After 20 years,
renting stages is history!
The Chesapeake Jubilee has a long history of top
entertainers including Willie Nelson, Trace Adkins, Chuck Berry, The
Commodores, Conway Twitty, Travis Tritt, .38 Special, Four Tops,
Kansas, Charley Pride and Eddie Money.
The objective of the Jubilee is to celebrate the city’s
anniversary, but also to build community spirit and cohesiveness.
We offer events that we hope will appeal to all citizens of
Chesapeake, as well as all our neighbors. Come on out!
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| The Buddy Bagley Stage at
Chesapeake City Park |
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