Hersey presents first festival on summer line-up

HERSEY — If you’re ready for summer fun, the Village of Hersey is ready for you. Hersey Heritage Days Festival kicks off the summer line-up this weekend with three days of activities.

Today’s activities include a village wide yard sale, the beginning of the men’s softball tournaments, a beverage tent with live music and a teen dance.

“At the beverage tent we have a new band this year,” said Stephanie Hill, event co-organizer. “They play a little country and rock and roll and have a gal singer.”

The teen dance, beginning at 7 p.m., brings out the middle school crowd. They come from around the school district to pack the former Hersey kindergarten gym, Hill said.

On Saturday, yard sales and softball tournaments continue. Teams from as far away as Grand Rapids have registered, according to Hill. At 10 a.m., the Heritage Days parade marches through the business district to Blodgett Landing. Anyone may participate. Just check-in at 9:30 along First Street. In past years the parade has featured lawn mower riders, kids on bikes, scout troops, antique cars and fire trucks.

Following the parade at 11 a.m. at Blodgett Landing the kids’ games open. Tickets are six for $1.

“Every kid gets a prize, win or lose,” said Tomasia Guy, co-organizer.

Other Saturday events include an antique and craft show.

“The craft show is big this year,” Hill said. “I’m excited about that.”

About 20 vendors are expected to offer items from candles and bird feeders to custom ceramic tiles. The show is staged at Blodgett Landing.

New on the festival agenda is the Hersey River duck race. It begins at 3 p.m. Saturday. Proceeds benefit the Rebekah Lodge “Send a Kid to Camp” fund.

Mudd racing presented by MOMSMOTORSPORTS.COM highlights Sunday events. In addition to mudd drag racing, a half-time activity gets kids out into the mud for foot races. Gate fee is $8 for adults, $6 for children and $15 for pit passes. Races begin at 1 p.m. at Hersey Field.

“It’s a nice little town,” Guy said. “We welcome everyone to come visit.”

HERSEY HERITAGE DAYS

Friday, June 1