LAUREL HILL — After several months of work, the Laurel Hill Hobo Festival Planning Committee has scheduled and programmed Saturday’s Hobo Festival.
Now the committee needs residents to attend, organizers said.
“We just need participation now … and we hope (the community) will be there,” committee member Betty Williamson said.
Traditionally, the festival took place the second Saturday in October. This year, the event will take place the first Saturday to not conflict with other community events.
Last year's festival was canceled due to a nonprofit status issue when filing event paperwork. “A Day in the Country Life” Fall Festival, sponsored by the city’s volunteer fire department and Safe Haven Horse Rescue Center, replaced it.
Williamson and Mayor Robby Adams, who is also part of the festival committee, said residents asked if the festival would return this year.
“We had a lot of people asking about it,” Adams said. “I think it’s great that we are bringing it back.”
Robby's wife, Debra, who served as treasurer, agrees.
“I believe the festival is something good for our community and a time we can come together and enjoy a day at the park,” Debra said.
This year’s festival will feature live music from Johnie Jackson and Friends, SALT and Juke Joint Willie. In addition, free children’s activities will be available throughout the day.
Attendees can visit nearly 30 vendors – including food, arts and crafts on the festival grounds, Robby Adams said.
They can win prizes — including gift certificates and other items donated by area businesses — during a raffle and silent auction. Winners will be announced at 4:30 p.m.
One addition for festival attendees is the covered seating area.
“Everyone can bring a chair and enjoy the live entertainment in the shade,” Debra said.
Attendees are also encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item, which will be donated to Sharing and Caring in Crestview.
WANT TO GO?
WHAT: Laurel Hill Hobo Festival
WHEN: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4
WHERE: Gene Clary Park, located on the corner of New Ebenezer Road and Park Street, Laurel Hill
COST: Free to attend
NOTES: See laurelhillhobofestival.org or www.facebook.com/Laurelhillhobofestival for more information
Email News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Hobo Festival returns Saturday after one-year hiatus