Next weekend is going to be peachy.

The Fort Collins Peach Festival is returning to Civic Center Park and Washington Park next Saturday (August 24th). The festival begins at 8:15 a.m. and goes all the way until 5 p.m.

I spoke with the festival's Senior Coordinator Emily Jolly to get the inside scoop about the event. Here are five things you need to know:

1. The day starts off with a 5K.

The race starts at 8:15 a.m. If even just the thought of running makes you want to throw up, don't worry. "This is a very family focused event. We want to make it a fun Saturday for everyone of all levels," Emily said.

However, running superstars are still welcome to attend. Register for the run online here.

2. There will be live music to enjoy.

There will be three live performances, starting with Pamela Machala at 10 a.m. My Blue Sky will follow at noon, and Foxfeather will close out the day starting at 2 p.m.

"We are super excited. Amazing live entertainment for everyone," Emily said.

3. There will be lots of peaches (obviously). 

There will be peaches themselves, as well as tons of exciting twists on the fruit including, but not limited to: peach beer, peach margaritas, peach wine, peach pancakes, peach pie, etc.

If you really want to take advantage of this peach-flavored extravaganza, there will be a peach pie eating contest at 4 p.m.

4. The event benefits The Boys and Girls Club of Larimer County.

According to Emily, The Boys and Girls Club is a special organization to the board behind the Peach Festival: "We've grown to really want to take care of our community and also our children."

Proceeds from the event will be used to get food, arts and crafts, and more to the children.

5. There is an entrance fee.

For people 16 and older, there is a $5 entrance fee (kids 15 and younger get in for free). However, some of the events, such as the 5K and the adult beverages, require extra tickets to access.

Others, such as the live concerts, are free (excluding the entrance fee).


If this article has you feeling peachy-keen about the festival, mark your calendars for Saturday, August 24th. To learn more, check out the full interview with Emily below.

 

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