WENDELL — Music, food, fun and a “bigger than ever” parade will mark this small town’s 46th annual Old Home Day this weekend.
“As the world as we know it becomes increasingly challenging, positive vibrations are being kept alive and well in Wendell, Massachusetts,” said organizer Karen Copeland.
The event kicks off at 11 a.m. Saturday with a parade in the town center and will continue until the evening.
Copeland has organized the event for two decades — the celebration started in the 1930s, but has only run continuously since 1973. She said, as always, the event will be “a breath of creative and innovative country air.”
“As always, there will be lots of crafts, food, farmers market, lots of tag sales and massages, juggling, healing, kids activities — and fun with old and new friends,” Copeland said.
The parade will have various floats, including a “kids’ float,” and also drummers, kazooists and costumed “Wendell Wonderland” characters — a local take on “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll — Copeland said.
At 1 p.m., the day’s musical acts start at the Town Common with the Wendell Chorus, which will perform leading up to a ceremonious ringing of the Wendell Meetinghouse bell — tours of the meetinghouse will be given throughout the day.
Other musicians to play include local acts Simon White, The Bear Mountain Boys featuring Perry Howarth, Paul Richmond, KC and Jafar, the Swamp Sisters, Annie Hassett, Court Dorsey, Nuru and Mountain Taiko.
“Music will fill the creative country air all afternoon,” Copeland said.
Copeland added that — in addition to local food and music — the event always includes interesting demonstrations in holistic healing and solar cooking, which are both expected this year.
To reserve a booth, or for any questions or information contact Copeland at kckeepthebeat@hotmail.com or 978-544-7352. Food vendors must also contact the Board of Health for a permit, and vendors are not allowed to set up before 5 p.m. Friday.