By Lanier Laney
In 1997, the hit television show “Seinfeld” launched a new December holiday called “Festivus,” making it part of worldwide culture. It was conceived by “Seinfeld” writer Dan O’Keefe whose family had been celebrating it since the 60’s as a reaction to holiday commercialism. Instead of an expensive Christmas tree, a bare aluminum “Festivus pole” is erected in light-hearted fun. More than 50 people attended Beaufort’s third annual Festivus on North Street, even former “Seinfeld” guest star actor Terry Sweeney. Celebratory events included a parade, airing of grievances, re-gifting, feats of strength, the Little Miss Festivus pageant and of course much food, fun and merriment.
