Suffolk sets date for popular peanut festival

Suffolk’s 46th annual Peanut Fest will be held Oct. 10-13 at the Suffolk Executive Airport, organizers announced last week.

This year’s theme is “Shell-ebrating Suffolk’s Roots, From Our Hearts to Our Boots.” Suffolk first celebrated its peanut-growing heritage in 1941 with a parade, dances and balls and coronation of a queen. About 10,000 people turned out for the first event. Today’s four-day festival draws more than 125,000 people.

Headlining the main stage this year will be country singer Easton Corbin, along with performances by the Deloreans, Celeste Kellogg, Snackbar Jones, Vinyl Radio, Luke Willette Band, Shades of Gray, Mash Up & Cozy Condition and Island Boy.

Returning festival favorites include a peanut butter sculpting contest, carnival and amusement rides, fireworks, a demolition derby, a touch-a-truck exhibit and a petting zoo.

Tickets go on sale Aug. 1. General admission is $10 per person, with children 12 and under free.

For more information about Suffolk Peanut Fest and associated concerts, events and games, see suffolkpeanutfest.com .