At first blush, the Kentucky Derby, the Tournament of Roses Parade and our own Riverbend Festival might not seem to have much in common. When it comes to running such events, however, there are a large number of similarities.
Riverbend Executive Director Chip Baker was recently named to the foundation board of the International Festivals & Events Association. That group, which has members associated with large events and festivals around the world, meets regularly to share ideas. Through his involvement with the IFEA, Baker was invited to attend last year’s Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, Calif.
“It’s a huge honor for Riverbend,” Baker said. “Only 20 people get invited, and it was people from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Calgary Stampede, the Kentucky Derby Festival, Indy 500. I think it illustrates the kind of company we are in.”
Baker spent nearly a week in Pasadena as a guest of the festival. At one of the dinners, the 20 honored guests spoke to the attendees about their own organizations.
“It was a dream to be there,” Baker said. “It’s about relationships. Four people from Pasadena will be coming to Riverbend this year. It’s a great resource and an ally.”