LAUREL HILL — Although this year’s Hobo festival was canceled, area residents can still expect a fall festival this Saturday at Gene Clary Park.
Event sponsor Safe Haven Horse Rescue Center will feature a couple of therapy horses that provide comfort to ailing and disabled residents, namely wounded military service members.
In addition to food and art vendors, the Laurel Hill Volunteer Fire Department, a co-sponsor, will display some of its fire engines and members will sell raffle tickets for an AR-15 rifle.
Local gospel and country singers will perform on the center stage. Country music artist Ed Tanza will sing "God Bless the USA" following the opening ceremony, which will include the National Anthem, the Pledge of Allegiance and the 7th Special Forces Green Berets’ presentation of colors. Tanza also will perform "Horses with Heart," a theme song for Safe Haven.
Festival organizers invite area motorcycle enthusiasts to appear in a motorcycle parade starting at 1 p.m. at the track around the park.
Additionally, motorcyclists are encouraged to visit the Gold Wing Road Riders Association booth, which will feature safety information.
The Hobo Festival took a one-year hiatus due to permitting issues, but the event is expected to return next year, organizers said.
WANT TO GO?
WHAT: Laurel Hill Fall Festival
WHEN: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday
WHERE: Gene Clary Park, on the corner of New Ebenezer and Park Street.
COST: Free admission; individual costs for food and other purchases
Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown at 850-682-6524 or matthewb@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbMatthew.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Hobo Festival’s replacement is this Saturday