"Popeye's 75th Birthday"
September 10, 11, 12 2004

25th Annual Popeye Picnic Comes To A Very Successful End

The 25th annual Popeye Picnic in Chester, Illinois came to an end with a bang Sunday night. The three day celebration in Popeye's hometown ended with a huge fireworks display just after 9pm. Thousands and thousands of people came to Chester for not only the 25th annual picnic, but to celebrate the 75th birthday of the hometown sailor, Popeye.

A large crowd turned out for the annual picnic parade on Saturday, which was the longest parade in recent years. Following the parade, a number of Popeye fans attended the huge 75th birthday party that was held at the Gazebo, next to the building where it all began, the Chester Opera House which is now the home of the official Popeye Fan Club and Spinach Can Collectibles. Superman, Spiderman, Shrek and others helped Popeye celebrate his 75th birthday.

The weather over the three-day event was ideal with temperatures in the 80s and clear skies all three days. The perfect weather allowed folks to get outside and enjoy a number of new activities that were held all around town.

The 26th annual Popeye's Picnic will be held September 9, 10, and 11, 2005. So mark your calendars now.