Gwinnett Daily Post

GRAYSON -- On Saturday, more than 180 booths and activities will be set up for the 33rd annual Grayson Day Festival taking place in the Grayson Community Park. The event has become a tradition in the small city.

"The current mayor, Jim Hinkle, was the mayor when the festival first began and is now back in office for his sixth term since 2002," said Laura Paul-Cone, Grayson's city administrator. "(The festival) has grown immensely over the years."

There will be a parade themed "Mission Accomplished," which will travel on Grayson Parkway from Bennett Road to Britt Street at 10 a.m. Afterwards, attendees can enjoy various foods and vendors selling arts, crafts and other products.

But the one thing that stands out from other festivals are the kids attractions -- they are all free. Everything in the play area has been donated for the day. Kids 'R' Kids will supply a giant slide, an obstacle course and bounce houses are sponsored by Spacewalk of Snellville and Precision Planning is offering a Space Ball Spin Machine.

"The more free activities for the kids to do means more money the parents can spend at the vendor booths," Paul-Cone said. "Many of our vendors return year after year because they love coming to Grayson."

Another large attraction this year is the bake sale, which will be open during the event. Mayor Hinkle's wife, Barbara will have samples of food from their "From Trip to Grayson" cookbook available for taste testers.

Plus, the community is honoring Coach Mickey Conn of the Grayson High School state championship football team for celebrating 100 wins and taking the trophy. He is the grand marshal for the parade.

"Grayson Day is just a fun community event where you can get good food and speak to friends and neighbors while meeting new people," Paul-Cone said. "There is continuous entertainment in the pavilion and many activities to do all through the park."