CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Proudly unincorporated, the community of Carmichael will mark its 113th anniversary on September 24. Live music, youth group performances, a car show and kids activities will bring a carnival atmosphere to Carmichael Park.

Founder’s Day commemorates a 1909 real estate venture by realtor Daniel Carmichael. The Georgian-born entrepreneur purchased chunks of the old San Juan and Del Paso land grants and carved these into 10-acre blocks. Settlers were offered mini farms for around $1000 each. The lots have since been much subdivided and though few original homes remain, streets named for pioneers Van Alstine, Gibbons, Barrett, Clark, Kenneth, Stanley – and Dan Carmichael himself – are monuments to the colony’s early years.

History aside, the birthday provides much festivity. The area’s largest annual car show will fill part of Carmichael Park with classic motors. In the sound-shell area, youth performances will include martial arts, gymnastics and the award-winning Del Campo High School Cheer Team. A free kids Zone will offer bounce houses and crafts. Food trucks will provide refreshments.

In advance of the dates, Carmichael Improvement District is rallying enthusiasm by encouraging businesses to offer anniversary deals. “The 1909 date seems a good hook for Carmichael love,” explains PBID executive Rebekah Evans. “The T-SHIRT PRO is offering to custom print 24 tee shirts for $190.09. That’s a real bargain. Cake, Cake and More Cake bakery is offering a two-layer cake for $19.09. It usually sells for $40.”

Shoppers can locate these and other specials on the CID website: www.discovercarmichael.com. The deals are available every day up to and including Founders Day. 

September 24 festivities will kick off with a flag presentation at 10 am in Carmichael Park. Sponsors include Buck Family Automotive, Mission Oaks and Carmichael Recreation and Park Districts and the Cappuccino Cruisers Classics Car Club.

Learn more about Carmichael Founder’s Day at www.carmichaelpark.com