The Friends of the Folsom Powerhouse Association (FFPA) have officially announced the date for their 9th annual Powerfest event, a summer celebration blending local history with live music, food, drinks, and community fun. The event will take place on Saturday, June 7, at the Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park.
The beloved annual event offers attendees an evening filled with live entertainment, dancing, and opportunities to win door prizes, all while exploring the historic Folsom Powerhouse site. The celebration will feature a variety of cuisines from popular local food trucks and craft brews from top breweries throughout the region.
Proceeds from Powerfest directly support the Friends of the Folsom Powerhouse, a nonprofit organization of dedicated volunteers committed to preserving and sharing the history of the Folsom Powerhouse. The group works in partnership with California State Parks to ensure that the legacy of this national engineering landmark is accessible and appreciated by the community.
The Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park, situated near Folsom’s iconic Rainbow Bridge, is a nationally recognized treasure dating back to 1895. Though its significance is unknown to many in the region, the site played a crucial role in advancing electrical engineering standards. In 2022, the powerhouse was awarded IEEE Milestone Status by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the world’s largest professional organization for electrical and electronics engineers. A commemorative plaque at the site reads:
Folsom was one of the earliest electrical plants to generate three-phase alternating current and the first using three-phase, 60 hertz. On July 13, 1895, General Electric generators began transmitting electricity 22 miles to Sacramento at 11,000 volts, powering businesses, streetcars, and California’s Capitol. The plant demonstrated the advantages of three-phase, 60-hertz long-distance transmission, which became the standard and promoted nationwide development of affordable hydropower.”
In addition to live music and refreshments, attendees can enjoy guided tours of the Folsom Powerhouse to learn more about its contributions to electrical innovation and California history. The Friends of the Folsom Powerhouse will also showcase their fully restored 1932 Ford Model A pickup truck, a local parade favorite, which will be on display during the event.
The Friends of the Folsom Powerhouse Association provides vital financial support and volunteer services to California State Parks, helping maintain the site, educate visitors, and fund special projects that preserve the powerhouse’s historic legacy.
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or vendor inquiries, visit FolsomPowerhouse.org or contact Mike Frey at mikef@srco.com.
