Lemonade Days history goes back to April 1998, when a tornado destroyed more than 100,000 trees in Dunwoody. The Dunwoody Preservation Trust, led by Joyce Amacher, launched Replant the Dunwoody Forest and planted more than 25,000 trees. A celebration at the Cheek-Spruill House became Lemonade Days in 2000, and the festival celebrated its 25th year at Brook Run Park in April 2025.
After a tornado ripped through Dunwoody in 1998, neighbors came together to replant, rebuild and reconnect. What started as a tree-planting campaign grew into something lasting: Lemonade Days, the city’s biggest celebration of resilience and community.
Now in its 25th year, the festival keeps evolving while honoring its roots. Hope Follmer, who directs the festival for the Dunwoody Preservation Trust, and Kathy Florence, Communications Manager for the City and a former Honorary Miss Lemonade Days, helped shape this milestone year.
From carnival rides and food trucks to new features like chalk art, legacy lanyards and local bands at the new Band Shell, 2025 felt like a perfect blend of nostalgia and new energy. I didn’t emcee Dunwoody Idol this year, but the heartbeat of the festival is stronger than ever. Whether you’ve lived here for decades or you’re new to town, this is the week that reminds you of that small town feel we love.
The 2025 festival ran April 23 to 27 at Brook Run Park.
Listen on Apple Podcasts. This episode is sponsored by Dr. Brett Friedman with Village Orthodontics and Discover Dunwoody.
Lemonade Days History: The 1998 Tornado
In April 1998, a tornado tore through Dunwoody and took down more than 100,000 trees. Led by Joyce Amacher, the Dunwoody Preservation Trust started the Replant the Dunwoody Forest campaign, and volunteers planted more than 25,000 trees.
The next year, neighbors gathered at the Cheek-Spruill House to celebrate the progress. That gathering officially became Lemonade Days in 2000.
From the Cheek-Spruill House to Brook Run
Early Lemonade Days was simple: carnival games, bounce houses and performances on the front lawn of the Cheek-Spruill House. As the crowds grew, the festival moved to Brook Run Park, which gave it room for more rides, vendors, music, parking and the food truck area.
New for the 25th Lemonade Days
- Legacy Lanyards for families who have come for generations
- A new Band Shell in the Kids Zone with local bands
- Chalk art stations
- The Festival Flashback Booth with photos and memorabilia from past years
- More partnerships with city departments and local businesses
A Pause for Dunwoody Idol
Dunwoody Idol took 2025 off after its longtime producer stepped back for a new role at Mount Vernon School. I emceed it for years, and I loved seeing local kids shine. Here’s hoping it comes back in a fresh format.
Tips for Lemonade Days
- Wednesday is Family Night with discounts and smaller crowds
- Petting zoo and pony rides are on Saturday and Sunday
- Beer garden and food trucks are open every day
- Shuttle stops and rideshare drop-off are near the baseball fields
Why Lemonade Days Matters
Lemonade Days is a fundraiser for the Dunwoody Preservation Trust, which cares for the Donaldson-Bannister Farm, the Cheek-Spruill House and the Stephen Martin Cemetery. Volunteers, churches, the city and sponsors make the whole thing happen.
My Take
Knowing the Lemonade Days history makes the festival mean more. From fallen trees came real roots. Read last year’s episode on Lemonade Days and the Preservation Trust and my list of things to do in Dunwoody.
Thinking About Moving to Dunwoody?
Read my Moving to Dunwoody guide, search Dunwoody homes for sale, or text me or call 404-502-8683. More on the Trust at Dunwoody Preservation Trust.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemonade Days History
How did Lemonade Days start?
After an April 1998 tornado destroyed more than 100,000 trees in Dunwoody, the Dunwoody Preservation Trust led a replanting effort. A celebration at the Cheek-Spruill House became Lemonade Days in 2000.
When was the 25th Lemonade Days?
April 23 to 27, 2025, at Brook Run Park.
Who runs Lemonade Days?
The Dunwoody Preservation Trust, with Hope Follmer directing the festival.
Where does Lemonade Days money go?
To the Dunwoody Preservation Trust, which cares for the Donaldson-Bannister Farm, the Cheek-Spruill House and the Stephen Martin Cemetery.