PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Crown of Maine Balloon Fest street fair will begin at 5 p.m. on Main Street today, Aug. 22.
Attractions will include a potato-picking contest for youth under 16 years of age, as well as locally sourced food and beverage items for sale.
According to Alan Harding, exalted ruler of the Presque Isle Elks, who have sponsored the Balloon Fest street fair for 10 consecutive years, this year’s theme is “We are Country.” Consistent with that theme, Main Street restaurants and street vendors will feature locally sourced food items, offering a wide variety of delicious choices.
Starting at 5 p.m., there will be a potato-picking contest for youth with two divisions, under 16 and under 10. Young people will be challenged to pick up a row of potatoes, with classic potato baskets and barrels. Potato pickers will be timed, with awards for the best times in each division.
Live musical entertainment will be provided by The Good Ole Boys and Girls, who feature country music.
“The Balloon Fest street fair is one the rare events for the entire community, which allows old friends and neighbors to renew acquaintances in a friendly, unrushed setting,” said Harding. “No one should pass up their opportunity to enjoy this year’s street fair.”
