Preparations are underway for the annual Kirk’s Crossing Festival, returning to Kirklin June 25-28 with four days of family-friendly entertainment, food, contests, live music, and community activities.
Additional vendors and parade participants are being sought to help make this year’s event one of the largest yet.
According to Rob Hickson, spaces remain available for craft vendors, food vendors, and sellers of specialty items and knick-knacks. The festival is also accepting entries for its popular parade, which will begin at noon on Saturday, June 27, along Main Street in downtown Kirklin.
“We’re excited to welcome the community back for another great festival and would love to hear from anyone interested in becoming a vendor or participating in the parade,” Hickson said.
Individuals, businesses, community groups, clubs, churches, and organizations interested in securing vendor space or entering the parade can contact Hickson by email at rob.hickson@gmail.com for information and registration details.
The festival officially kicks off Thursday, June 25, with the KVFD Dan’s Fish Fry and a Versiti Blood Drive at the Kirklin Library from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, June 26, will feature Family Fun Night with pony rides, a petting zoo, barrel train rides, pickleball, door prizes, a foam party, live music by John Stevens Jr., and a free movie in the park at dusk. Food vendors, craft vendors, face painting, and children’s games will be available throughout the evening.
Saturday’s activities begin with a community breakfast hosted by the American Legion and continue with the Kirk’s Crossing 5K Run, pickleball tournament, car show, animal show, inflatables, bingo, dance party, cornhole competitions, pie and pizza eating contests, door prizes, and live entertainment.
The festival parade will step off at noon Saturday, with float awards presented following the event. Evening entertainment includes a performance by Penthouse Suites Band and a community beer garden.
The celebration concludes Sunday, June 28, with music by Stones Crossing, a free community lunch, and the annual waterball tournament.
Early registration is encouraged for several popular events, including the Kirk’s Crossing 5K Run, Cornhole Tournament, and Kiddie King and Queen Contest.
In addition, the Clinton County Humane Society will be participating in the festival, providing information about its programs and animals available for adoption. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet adoptable dogs and cats and learn how they can support the organization. A donation drive for needed supplies will continue through June 28 at the Kirklin Dollar General.
Registration forms for festival activities are available at Bookers, Farmers Bank, the Kirklin Library, Rise and Brew Coffee Shop, American Legion Post 310, and the Kirklin Post Office. Additional information and festival updates can be found on Facebook at @kirkscrossingfestival.
Anyone interested in becoming a vendor or entering the parade is encouraged to contact Rob Hickson at rob.hickson@gmail.com as soon as possible.