The 25th annual Ozark Ham and Turkey Festival offered good weather, a great variety of vendor booths and activities galore.
The weather warmed up comfortably by midday, even getting a little bit warm in the direct sun during the afternoon.
The day started off a bit cool for the Kiwanis breakfast at the Commerce Bank drive through lot, and the 5K Run / Walk at the Village Green Shopping Center, but few seemed to mind. There were 38 walkers and 42 runners.
The "Anything Goes" parade started at 9:30 a.m., with the many entries, including fire trucks, tractors, antique cars, and, of course a number of floats and the local band. The Boy Scouts conducted the flag-raising and led the Pledge of Allegiance, the fourth and fifth grade California Kids sang the national anthem and Mayor Norris Gerhart spoke briefly.
The 72.5 foot long submarine sandwich, sponsored by Cargill and built in front of the Moniteau County Courthouse, was served to a large number of people.
The festival goers watched California school students perform on the north stage. The California Community ensemble performed at noon at the Finke Theatre. The group "Bourbon Creek" performed on the Barbecue Stage.
The car show, antique tractor show and food booths drew people to the Moniteau County Fairgrounds. Disc golf took others to Proctor Park. The washer board tournament was held on Third Street.
The Children's Barnyard and Kid's Corner, and the available food and drink delighted the youngsters. The Diaper Derby provided entertainment for parents and grandparents as they watched racing babies.
The day-long event closed out with a Compact Figure 8 / Tuff Truck competition, with the Power Wheels Figure 8 for the younger set.
There will be a wrap-up meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5, at the City Hall Meeting Room. Anyone interested in promoting and helping with future events is urged to attend.