Art, crafts, jewelry, food, great music, good people and no rain. Organizers of the 33rd Annual Harvest Festival breathed a sigh of relief on Saturday when the clouds held and little or no rain fell. By 11 a.m., no longer as concerned about the rain, the crowds increased.

John Willingham, Chairman of the Yadkin Arts Council and President of the Yadkinville Chamber of Commerce directed the opening ceremony and kept running all day long, busy at one task or another.

Yadkinville Mayor Hubert Gregory welcomed the crowd. After the festival he said, "America thinks they've got talent, Yadkinville's got talent."

Based on the long lines for food vendors, food was the favorite draw.

Craft vendors stated at the end of the day that they sold very little and some said they sold nothing at all.

Local food vendors enjoyed a very lucrative day. 68 different booths were available for people to peruse, admire and taste.

Festival organizers estimated the number of attendees at around 5,000.

Thought his may have been a bit less than attendance at last year’s festival, the previous week’s weather probably played a part.

“We’d been watching the weather reports anxioiusly all week. Three other festivals cancelled their plans by Thursday, but we kept the faith and sure enough the weather held out for us. Overcast, but a nice breeze – perfect for an all-day festival, said Stephen Lyons. “The 33rd annual Harvest Festival had something for everyone and the Idol Contest demonstrated how much diverse talent there is in this area and how much folks love this contest.”

NC Representative Darrell McCormick was on hand to answer questions and enjoy the festival on a personal level. “This is just a wonderful event,” he said. “It gives folks a chance to get together, enjoy great music, great food and good fellowship.”