Mater Fest, which celebrates Haywood County’s biggest crop, is free to the public. The event features a car show, the annual Mrs. Mater Pageant, a wide variety of craft and food vendors, a kids’ area, and the main stage area with music and dancers. People are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
The event is coordinated each year by Focus On Canton, and the group underwrites the cost through merchandise and food sales, along with sponsorships from businesses and individuals in the community.
This year, Mater Fest will take place during Pickin’ In the Park Aug. 3. The music event takes place from 7-10 p.m. every Friday during the summer. This week’s musical group is Cherokee Band. The Dixie Darling and Stoney Creek dancers will join the band.
Balsam Range will perform a free concert on Saturday night at the Canton Recreation Park as part of Mater Fest.