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Spring Hill Country Ham Festival

Spring Hill Country Ham Festival

Each year, the John Maher Builders Spring Hill Country Ham Festival draws thousands of visitors from all over Middle Tennessee and beyond.  The festival is the perfect opportunity for craft and food vendors to showcase their wares and fare.  There is truly no limit to the imaginative displays the festival includes.  Past vendors have touted everything from fried Oreos to handcrafted wooden dog puzzles.

“We welcome unique booth sponsors,” said Chris DeBerry, event coordinator.  “The individuality of the food and crafts that can be found at the festival is part of what makes it special.  You just never know what you can find!”

Of course, festival favorites such as roasted corn, funnel cakes and homegrown honey can be counted on year after year.  Plenty of savory Country Ham is tucked into biscuits or sandwiches throughout the day as well.

Any business or civic organization can join in the fun by sponsoring a booth in the ever-popular Kids Zone.  Sponsors offer free activities for kids.

“All a business or organization has to do to be a part of the Kids Zone is to offer a free game or activity for children,” DeBerry explained.  “They can give away prizes with their company name or logo on them.  It is a great way for businesses to advertise, since they can meet thousands of potential customers face-to-face.  Any organization can showcase their community spirit by participating as a Kids Zone sponsor.  The festival board is happy to help with ideas for games and activities if needed.  In the past we have had activities such as inflatables, putt-putt golf, a bean bag toss and the ‘fishing game.’  It’s great fun!”

In keeping with festival tradition, all arts and crafts presented must be handmade originals.  Handcrafted jewelry, candles, woodwork or homemade jams and jellies are sure to please.  The beautiful setting of the Tennessee Children’s Home paired with the good music and good company of the festival will be the perfect accompaniment to any business venture.

“Our festival is known as a great resource for family fun and unique holiday gift items,” said DeBerry.  “We have garnered quite a reputation, in thanks to our talented vendors.  We always look forward to working with new and repeat vendors in anticipation of another successful event!”

The festival board is now accepting applications for vendors for this year’s festival. The deadline for applications is September 1, 2009. Applications can be found on the Web site www.countryhamfest.com.  Interested persons can also call (931) 486-3300.

The John Maher Builders Spring Hill Country Ham Festival will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Tennessee Children’s Home (804 Branham Hughes Boulevard in Spring Hill).  Admission to this family fun event is free.  Parking is $10.  Highlights of the day include a Kid’s Zone, arts and crafts booths, a Hog Calling Competition, live music and much more.  A spectacular fireworks exhibit will begin at dark.  For more information, visit the Web site:  www.countryhamfest.com or call (931) 486-3300.