Beginning at 10 a.m. and running most of the day, Rowland will host its eighth annual Springfest. Most events will be centered around the Historic Depot.
Festival Committee chairman Dessie Lowry said an art show is the highlight of the festival, which attracts between two and three thousand each year. Art work, including paintings, drawings and pottery made by local students will be on display in the rear of the depot throughout the day. The students are from Southside-Ashpole Elementary, Rowland Middle and South Robeson High schools. Lowry said about 150 pieces will be displayed. Judges will award the top three best pieces from each school tonight. First place winners will receive $100; second place, $75 and third place, $50.
This is the first year that middle school students get to show off their pottery.
“I think this is a special event,” Lowry said. “It is unbelievable the art that these children have on display especially at their age. Not all kids are academically or athletically gifted, so its nice that something is done for the ones who are artistically inclined.
“I don't think enough is done in this county for the arts. We do a lot to recognize the athletes, but we do little to promote the arts,” Lowry said. “That's why we started this art show four years ago.”
Jim's Gems and Gold of Aberdeen will offer a new attraction this year - panning for gold.
“Jim is bringing soil straight from the coal mines,” Lowry said. “This is special because I don't think he has participated in any festivals in this area before.”
The entertainment line-up includes the gospel groups Teachers of Grace, formerly known as the Littlefield Trio and Naomi Eastern Star Chapter 71.
The Carolina Youth Action Association, a Rowland youth group, will also perform. Don Diego will serve as the emcee.
Vendors will be selling traditional festive foods like cotton candy, funnel cakes, ribbon fries and sandwiches. There will also be craft vendors, face painting and games for children.
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