Applefest returns to the Marion County Fairgrounds in Salem this Saturday.
Salem Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jessiycka Coleman says the event will run from ten to three and has grown from last year.
“Amazing amount of craft market vendors. We actually have the highest number coming this year I believe we have 115 confirmed and scheduled. We have expanded our food trucks. We have learned over the past couple of years our crowds just keep growing and growing from the regional area. So we have increased our food trucks. A lot more sweets and treats, food and drinks.”
Coleman says a number of activities are planned throughout the day.
“Our ax throwing is coming back. A straw maze for the kids in the free kids area. The Salem Wildcat cheerleaders coming out to pump out the crowd. Southern Illinois Elite Tumbling will come out at 11 a.m. the cheerleaders at noon.”
The Ctown SkateKrew will be performing on the concrete pad in the Free Kids Area and educating festival attendees about skateboarding. The kids area will also feature a free petting zoo and free bouncy house.
After Whitney Murray Lowery of Patoka performs the National Anthem to kick off the event at ten Saturday morning, local band No Clew will perform throughout the day on the stage.
Apple Wars will also return, with five entries in the apple desert contest this year. The Little Mr. and Ms. Apple Dumpling Contest will also return with the winners in the three age brackets announced at three pm.
Admission will be the same as last year, $5 per car regardless of how many are in the vehicle.
The event is a fundraiser for the non-profit Salem Chamber of Commerce.
