2026 Recipient, Deanna Bollinger

FOR HER LONGSTANDING COMMITMENT AND SERVICE TO THE FESTIVAL

This year, we are thrilled to recognize someone who embodies that same dedication, kindness, and “say yes” attitude that keeps our Festival thriving year after year.

It is with great pride that we announce the 2026 Leman Johnson Award recipient — Deanna Bollinger!

Deanna was raised in East Wenatchee in the orchard industry and graduated from Eastmont High School in 1987. After graduating from Central Washington University, she came home to work in the event and catering industry and raise her family. In 1992 she started “Festival Friday’s” in our valley and sold Apple Blossom t-shirts to the local banks in support of the Festival.

Deanna has always loved the Apple Blossom Festival — she grew up playing the flute with the Eastmont Band in both the Youth Parade and the Grand Parades, starting in 1979 with the Sterling Bobcats! She officially got involved as a volunteer in 2001 when she purchased Nancy’s Party Rentals. Since then, she has served our Festival in countless ways — as a member of our Board of Directors for 3 separate terms, Pageant Director through the Wenatchee Central Lions Club twice, Auction Chair off and for 25 years, and as our Director General for the 100th Festival in 2019.

Deanna and her Nancy’s Party Rentals team have been instrumental in creating so many of the activities we all enjoy in Memorial Park — especially the Entertainment Stage and the Beer Garden. And truly, anytime we need help with a new idea or concept, Deanna is the first person we call.

Whenever we need a little “fluff and foof,” Deanna is there — with creativity, positivity, and heart.

Thank you, Deanna, for your unwavering support of the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival. We wouldn’t be here today without you.