Payson Roundup

It is going to be a high-energy, action-packed weekend in the Rim Country.

Things start hopping Saturday with the opening of both the annual Payson Heritage Festival and the 39th annual Vertielee Floyd Memorial Old-time Fiddlers Contest.

“By teaming up these two events, we hope to create a larger event that more people will want to enjoy,” said Cameron Davis, the director of Payson’s Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department.

The Heritage Festival will be held at Green Valley Park, opening at 9 a.m., and the Fiddle Festival will be basically across the road at Amity’s Acres, behind Main Street, with gates opening at 8:30 a.m. and opening ceremonies at 9:30 a.m. To get to Amity’s Acres, take South McLane off of Main Street and follow the signs. Visitors to each event can use one of the three “Tractor Trams (hayride style)” that will be going back and forth from each event all day long.

The festival is a celebration of Payson’s Western, Native American and Pioneer heritage and features along with music, art displays and cultural activities and it’s free. Take a step back in time to experience what it was like in Payson during the late 1800s. There will be ongoing demonstrations, special programs and hands-on activities to enjoy.

At the Fiddle Festival, guests will enjoy the talents showcased in 10 divisions. The championship features the top 18 from each age division and will be presented on Sunday, Sept. 27.

Admission to the Heritage Festival is free; admission to the Fiddle Festival is $8 for adults, with children 12 and under admitted free of charge.