A talent show, parade, pony rides, live music and a large variety of food and a nighttime concert/street dance with the Zach Edwards Band are just some of what is planned for Mayfest 2013. This year’s event, scheduled for May 4, is being planned by a small committee. Mayfest Chairman Rick Phelps said everyone is in place and are prepared for the yearly festival. “Thank the Lord. There are more volunteers this year,” Phelps said. “Because of that, there are different folks taking charge of different aspects of the festival.”
A returning favorite will be the pony rides and bounce houses for the children. “Many of the parents expressed to me last year how much they enjoy watching their children ‘having a blast’ with the ponies and the bounce houses,” Phelps said.
Phelps also said there is always room for those who want to volunteer before, during or after the event. “There is a place for everyone,” Phelps said. “I understand those who have restrictions on their time, but if they want to volunteer, we will find a fit for them that work with their schedule.”
Vendors who are interested in reserving a booth during Mayfest will be able to do so at a cost of $35. If electricity is required, the total will be $55. Phelps said the electricity usage will be closely monitored this year. “In years past, there have been vendors who were plugging into other vendor outlets, which causes problems,” Phelps said. “If a vendor who did not pay for electric is found to be ‘borrowing electricity,’ they will be asked to leave. To reserve a booth space, prospective vendors can contact Phelps at 325-642-5238 or by email at bangsmayfestchairman@gmail.com.
Due to new regulations, some vendors will be required to pay “a little more” upfront, “Phelps said. “The Texas Comptroller’s office is requiring all vendors selling product for profit must obtain a tax ID number.” Another requirement, Phelps explained, is that any vendor making food on-site for consumption and sale must obtain a three-day temporary permit from the Brown County Health Department. “I understand that aside from these new regulations, vendors will still be responsible for completing a vendor application and paying for a space at Mayfest,” Phelps said. “I am just asking that all of our vendors, new and returning, remember that we did not create these regulations—we just have to ensure they are adhered to. I appreciate everyone’s patience and do apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”
For more information, visit www.bangsmayfest.com or “like” the Bangs Mayfest page on Facebook. Visiting these two sites will allow prospective vendors and event-goers to access contact information and required paperwork.
“I am really excited about this year’s Mayfest,” Phelps said. “This event gets bigger each year and is great for our community.”
Pictured top left is Zach Edwards, headliner for Mayfest 2013 street dance which will run from 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM in downtown Bangs.
