Iron Mountain Market Fall Festival
POPLAR BLUFF – If the cold, blustery winds that blew through downtown Poplar Bluff Saturday kept you away from the Iron Horse Festival a few weeks ago, you’ll have a second chance to enjoy downtown fall festivities at the Iron Mountain Market’s Fall Festival to be held Saturday, Oct. 25 at the Historic Train Depot. The event will run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Organizer Rhonda Belcher says she is hoping for perfect weather for the event because there is so much for people to enjoy.
“We have a lot of vendors signed up, and more are added to our list every day,” said Belcher. She says the number of vendors signed up are beyond last year’s numbers already. Booth spaces are just $10 for vendors, or $15 if the vendor requires electricity. Those interested in booth space or who want to help with the event may call Belcher at 573-429-9326, or Jim Chrisman at 573-300-9303.
Among this year’s events are a “Grilled Cheese Cook Off” scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Cooking time ends at 2:30 with judges’ results being announced at 3 p.m.
“We think the grilled cheese event will be a lot of fun,” said Belcher. “Every family has their favorite version of this all-American classic.” The only requirement for the grilled cheese entrants is that the sandwich consist of at least 60 percent cheese, but creativity is encouraged. The fee for entering is $10, and the winner will receive a dinner for two at Colton’s Steak House. Each contestant must provide their own table, burners, cooking utensils, and materials. A prep space and washing station will be provided.
A Costume Contest also begins at 3 p.m. with two age groups, 0-5 and 6-12 years of age. Parents are expected to make sure all costumes are appropriate. The winner of each age group will receive a prize.
Belcher says a highlight of this year’s event will be the Kid Fun Area, in which there will be a Bounce House provided by Mills Iron Supply, pony rides, games, and a kids’ craft table. Walmart supplied a gift card for supplies to be purchased.
Live entertainment will also be part of this year’s event with Kyle Richards, the Cape Arrowhead Kountry Kickers, and several other entertainers.
Sponsors for this year’s event include Southern Bank, River Radio, Mills Iron Supply, Walmart, Brick Oven Pizza, The Deep Freeze, Buffalo Wild Wings, Big Lots, Family Video, Colton’s Steak House, Bluff Lanes, Ellis Batter, Pepsi, Stand Still Apparel, Larry Hillis Dodge, Robertson Construction, Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center and Mossy Oak Properties.
Part of the proceeds from this event will go to restoration of the Historic Train Depot.
“I really want to thank all the businesses and people who are helping with this event,” concluded Belcher. “They are what helps make it a success. This is only our second year for hosting this festival, and we are so happy with the way it continues to grow!”