TRAVERSE CITY -- Meet the neighbors for some food and tunes at Almira Township's picnic and music festival.
The free, second annual event will be held from noon to 8 p.m. Aug. 22 at the Almira Township Park, located near Mistwood Golf Course in the Lake Ann area. Scheduled performers include New Third Coast, The Wild Turkeys, Claudia Schmidt and Ruth and Max Bloomquist.
Last year's event received good responses from the more than 400 attendees; that encouraged township officials to do it again, said Earl Clark, president of the parks and recreation board.
"Basically, it's for the family, from little children right on up to old adults, and you can bring your blanket, chairs and come and go," he said.
Music will focus on folk, traditional folk, bluegrass and some country, with most acts performing for about 45 minutes. There will be a main stage and a children's stage with entertainment geared toward youngsters. Festival-goers can pack a picnic lunch or visit a concession stand for food items, such as Moomers ice cream and sweet corn. A model train display will also be set up. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Classic car owners can park their rides in a designated area.
Seamus Shinners, who helped organize the event, said last year's festival brought out a lot of friends, family and community members.
"A lot of people who hadn't seen each other in a long time got to see each other," he said. "It's a way to catch up with old friends and family that you lost touch with. That's what happened last year."
An "afterglow" will take place at the golf course following the park concerts.
The event is free to attendees and supported by community businesses and the township. Donations will be accepted. If it rains, festivities will be moved to Lake Ann United Methodist Church.
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