Celebrations blooming in Georgetown, the Red Poppy Festival marked its quarter-century milestone this weekend, drawing visitors to the city known as the fastest-growing in the nation. Georgetown played host to around 75,000 people for the event, which featured music, parades, and of course, the city's signature flower, according to KVUE.

Despite the swell of growth, residents say Georgetown has maintained its intimate feel. Newcomer Kay Trentpierce told KVUE, "It's a big town vibe, but I could get up and walk around and somebody will check on my stuff." Her statement echoes the sentiment of community connection despite the city's expansion. Even as businesses once tucked in at 7 p.m., resident Cara McKinney observed the city is now "always packed," with her son trumpeting in the local band, attributing Georgetown's popularity to an open secret that's spread wide.

The Red Poppy's symbolic significance roots back to a Georgetown soldier who shipped seeds from France to his mother during World War I. These same flowers, once a personal memento, have grown into the visual emblem of the community's annual gathering. "It brings unity to our city. They're planted all over town," said a neighbor, sowing the narrative of pride in their botanical heritage, as reported by FOX 7 Austin.