WAYNESBORO – The Appalachian Trail Outdoor Festival will mark the 100th anniversary of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy with a daylong celebration on Saturday, June 14, at Red Run Park, 12143 Buchanan Trail E.
The event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., promises free admission and will be held rain or shine. Organizers invite the community to enjoy live music, food, dozens of vendors and exhibits, and a variety of family-friendly activities.
The Conservancy was formed 100 years ago to help draw volunteers and resources together to complete the Appalachian Trail, the 1921 brainchild of Benton MacKaye. The 2,197-mile trail is visited by 3 million people annually, running through 14 states, attracting 5,000 volunteers who help protect its 370,000 acres.
At the June 14 event, musical entertainment will include performances by the Trail Troubadours, featuring Bruce Rowland and Mike Reyka from 10 to 11 a.m., AT Tales from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the Shade Tree Collective from 1 to 4 p.m.
Food vendors scheduled for the festival include Bernard’s Jamaican Jerk Chicken, Brio’s Coffeehouse, Cracken’ Catering and J&M BBQ.
The festival will feature exhibits and booths from organizations such as the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Keystone Trail Association, ALDHA, Appalachian Trail Museum, Friends of Michaux State Forest, Friends of Mont Alto State Park, The Native Niche Plants, Peace & Payton Water Safety and many more. Additional vendors will offer handmade gifts, specialty foods, crafts and outdoor gear.
Attendees can participate in activities including flower heart yoga sessions with Simone at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. (bring your own mat), children’s activities, fire safety training, and rides on the Red Run Express Train from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hiker hospitality and the Antietam Humane Society will also be present.
The event is sponsored by Buchanan Auto Stores, Native Niche and Red Run Grill, among others.
For more information, readers may visit waynesboroatc.org. The group is still seeking volunteers for the event.
