Vendors needed for April ‘Hoedown’
Published 8:29 pm Thursday, February 26, 2009
Vendors are currently being sought for the 14th annual Homespun Country Hoedown, scheduled for April 2.
Sponsored by Andalusia Department of Leisure Services’ Adult Activity Center and the Covington County Extension System, the event is expected to again draw participation numbers in the thousands, said AAC director Diane Jones.
“Every year, we say that people come from all over Alabama, Georgia and Florida, and every year, they come back,” Jones said. “We don’t expect this year to be any different.
“Our senior adults are valuable assets to our community,” she said. “To celebrate who they are and the contributions they have made, we have the Homespun Country Hoedown. People think the day is just for seniors, but that’s not true. We welcome adults of all ages.”
Jones said this year’s event theme is a day of comedy.
“So, folks need to come ready to laugh,” she said. “Entertainment this year will feature a comedy and Western variety show with comedienne Kelly Shepherd and impersonator Alva Lambert — both of whom are just hilarious.”
Music this year will be provided by Ron Taylor and the Country Band and other special guests.
This year’s event will also feature a new contest.
“We’re still going to have the old standards like the cookie contest and such, but this year we’re going to crown a Mr. and Mrs. Hoedown, so come dressed in your best country hoedown attire,” she said. “We don’t care if it’s gingham or brogans. Our judges will be ready to judge.”
The day will also feature “Trade Day” booths again, she said.
“Last year, we had a great response from all the booths,” she said. “There were people selling things like jewelry and purses to handmade crafts and artwork. It was great.”
There is a $20 fee for a 10-by-12-foot booth space, and booths cannot be reserved without a signed application and payment, she said.
“People should remember booths with electricity available are limited and will be reserved by request on a first come first serve basis,” she said. “So get your request in early.”
Participants may also purchase an old-fashioned lunch box, and tickets must be purchased in advance at the Adult Activity Center.
There is no admission charged for entrance, and doors open at 8:30 a.m. For more information on the day’s events or to inquire about booth space, contact the Adult Activity Center at 222-6891.