Organizers in Coker Creek are preparing for one of Monroe County's largest annual festivals.

Formerly held on the grounds of Coker Creek Village, the 43rd annual Autumn Gold Festival is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 13, and Sunday, Oct. 14, at a new location, the campus of Coker Creek Elementary School.

The Autumn Gold Festival brings crafters, artists, food vendors, entertainers and more to the Coker Creek Community.

At the festival, visitors can try their hand at a variety of activities, including gold panning, sample the different eateries, and purchase gifts and mementos from vendors. There will also be live entertainment both days.

Organizers are anticipating between 60 and 100 artists and crafters to be in attendance. Vendor applications must be approved in advance of the festival. For more information about booths and vending, e-mail autumngoldfestival@gmail.com.

A highlight of the annual festival is the crowning of the Autumn Gold Festival Queen. This year's queen contest will be at 1 p.m. on Sunday of the festival, where the festival will crown a queen, junior queen, princess and doll princess.

Costumes for the queen contest can be from any era of American heritage. Judges will select the winners based on authentic, old-fashioned costumes, accessories, poise and presentation.

There will be a winner and two runner-ups from each of the four categories. The contest is open to any girl, no matter where she is from or how old she is. There is no charge to participate in the contest.

Contestants can pre-register for the competition by calling Wanda Murphy at 423-261-2236, or they can register at the festival. All contestants must be registered no later than 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 14.

Adult tickets are $3 and children tickets are $1. Children age 6 and under are free. Gates usually open around 9:30 a.m.

Look for more details on the festival in an upcoming story in The Advocate & Democrat.

The annual festival is the only fundraiser for the Coker Creek Ruritan Club. Festival proceeds help the Ruritan Club sponsor community groups, such as the local Boy and Girl Scout Troops and the area fire department. In addition, the funds help those in the community and provide three scholarships each year to graduating students from the Coker Creek area. There are no paid positions within the club and all funding goes back into the community.

For more information, contact Ralph Murphy at 423-261-2236.

jessica.cross@advocateanddemocrat.com | 337-7101