Demopolis hosts 8th Annual Rooster Day festival Saturday

From the West Alabama Newsroom–

The city of Demopolis celebrates Rooster Day on Saturday. The 8th annual event showcases the city’s downtown — and it also commemorates a part of the city’s history.

Company’s coming to Demopolis this weekend — and folks there are hard at work — getting things ready.

Cindy Parker works for the city’s Horticulture Department.

“This is what I consider my house and I’m getting it ready for visitors to come. And we do that for every event. Christmas on the River. Fourth of July. Rooster Day,” said Parker.

Rooster Day celebrates the rooster auction of 1919 that helped pay for the bridge over the Tombigbee River along Highway 80 — that connects Marengo and Sumter counties.

The spring-time outdoor festival features dozens of vendors.

“It’s a little different from some festivals around the state because this is all hand-made,” said Kirk Brooker.

“So, all of our vendors make their goods. We do not allow any retail.”

Brooker says the event brings hundreds of people out to the public square in downtown Demopolis each year.

“It’s very energetic, very happy,” said Ella Yelverton.

“Everyone’s got a smile on their face, walking around with chicken or playing on the bouncy houses. It’s just good for everyone, every age.”

“Events like this are an economic boost for this community and this area. So, while we do this as a fundraiser for the Historical Society, it’s also for the entire community,” said Brooker.

“It’s all about community coming together. And we love meeting and greeting new people from out of town.”

Rooster Day kicks off Saturday morning — with a 5-K run at 8. The festival opens at 9 and runs until 4.

Rooster Day is held every year on the 2nd Saturday in April.