Baxter Harvest Festival securing an official historic designation from the America 250 Commission to celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States during the event on Saturday.
Baxter Historical Society’s Jeanie Lee said the local committee worked throughout the year to prepare for the national milestone. Lee said the festival will feature a tribute to veterans and a presentation about the anniversary at the depot.
“A lot of our generations growing up don’t know even of local heroes that have made the difference for us as America,” Lee said, “People in Baxter and Algood and Monterey and Cookeville that has made a vital part.”
Lee said The Daughters Of The American Revolution will be stationed inside the depot to provide an educational display regarding the genealogy of patriots. Lee said the organization will share information about the individuals who played a role in founding and establishing the country.
“Representing generations coming forward from those that have played an ultimate part in the founding of America and of establishing it, and that will be great I think for children to learn,” Lee said.
The event also features a kids zone with a 40-foot train ride and a water game called Walk on the Water. Live music will be provided by Timeless Highway Band. Lee said the city mayor, council members, and local schools have coordinated to organize the timeline and logistics for the day.
“Everyone is stepping up to the plate, our city officials, our mayor, councilmen and we’re all working together to make this a huge huge celebration,” Lee said.
The festival will run from 10am to 4pm. and includes a car show featuring between 80 and 120 vintage vehicles. Lee said local businesses have created themed items for the occasion, such as a Freedom Pie and a Stars and Stripes ice cream flavor.
Parking is available at the nearby primary and elementary schools.
