The Beautiful View Garden Club and the Buena Vista Lions Club are making plans for the annual Rural America Festival which is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 7. This annual festival has been sponsored by these local organizations for over 35 years.

All festival activities will be located on the Marion County Courthouse square. The parade begins at 10 a.m. and festival activities will continue throughout the day. The hours for the festival are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free.

Proceeds from the booth rentals are used in the in the community for beautification projects and to help maintain the Community Center building. Proceeds from the barbecue lunch are used to support the Lion’s Club projects for glasses for needy children in Marion County. This barbecue pork lunch is always popular and the men of the Lion’s Club enjoy preparing this delicious lunch. The members of the Beautiful View Garden Club will be selling soft drinks and they will also have a booth selling decorative glass block lights.

Residents of Marion County and surrounding counties are reminded to reserve booths for the festival and to place an entry in the parade. Churches, youth groups and individuals are encouraged to join in this fun filled day. Booth spaces are $25 and food vending spaces are $40.

Judy Williams is chairman for festival entries. Contact her at Buena Vista Floral Shop or 649-7800. Donna Scott has planned the parade for several years and she can be contacted at 649-7349. This year cash prizes will be awarded to the three best decorated floats/decorated vehicles.

Many of the vendors from other cities and states return each year because they enjoy the hospitality of our small town community festival. Arts, crafts and food items are the best selling items each year. In addition, there are several activities, which are planned especially for children.

Entertainment is a highlight of the day with performances by several local groups of children and adults. The Marion County High Band will perform following the parade. If you have an individual or group who can share a talent with the visitors at the festival please call Judy Williams 229-649-7800 for a scheduled time to perform. Local talent is encouraged, but talented performers from other cities are also welcome.

All residents of Marion County and friends from neighboring counties are invited to attend this family fun day. The larger the number of participants in the parade and the greater the variety of vendors and activities equals more fun for everyone.