"Psychedelic Lady" by Linda Howard is among the pieces in the art show during Valley Fest.
Cody McCarverIF YOU GOWhat: Valley FestWhen: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, April 20; noon-5 p.m. Sunday, April 21 (all times Central).Where: Downtown Dunlap, Tenn.Admission: $8 in advance, tickets at Dunlap banks and businesses; $10 at entrance gate days of event. Tickets good both days.Website: www.valleyfestonline.com
Phil StaceySmall-town Dunlap, Tenn., is throwing a big-time party this weekend.
The third Valley Fest takes place Saturday and Sunday, April 20-21, with events and music for all ages at locations throughout downtown Dunlap.
Nina Hunt says Valley Fest was the idea of an adult leadership class to create an event that would "pull the community together to put it on as well as offer good, wholesome entertainment and family fun."
"The community's response was amazing ... local business was enthusiastic and very supportive," she recalls.
From that grass-roots effort, the festival has grown to more than 50 craft/gift vendors and about 20 food vendors selling all the expected festival foods in addition to "stump dogs," which get their special flavor from a smoldering stump, and chicken and dumplings from Cookie Jar Cafe.
Cruise on over to the car show beside Victory Car Dealership to see classic and new cars and trucks.
According to Lorene Williams, executive assistant at the Sequatchie County-Dunlap Chamber of Commerce, car show registration is from 8 a.m. to noon with a $20 entry fee, which includes a goody bag for the car owner. Recognition will be given the top 30 classic and street rods-trucks, top 10 new car productions and top 5 Rat Rods.
Visitors may view the work of 40 area artists in an exhibit at the Dunlap City Training Center on the Valley Fest grounds.
Throughout both days there will be toe-tapping music playing across downtown from regional and nationally known musicians.
"American Idol" finalist Phil Stacey, local talent Carrie Hassler of Pikeville, Tenn., and hometown son Cody McCarver of Dunlap will be among them.
The music culminates with a performance by Exile on Saturday night. The band stops in Dunlap as part of its 50 Years in Music tour, performing favorites such as "Kiss You All Over," 'Woke Up in Love," "Give Me One More Chance" and "She's a Miracle."
Contact staff writer Susan Pierce at spierce@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6284.