If it wasn’t for Mertie Kelly Owens, Williamston wouldn’t have a Christmas Park. And if it wasn’t for the Spring Water Festival, well the Christmas Park would probably be a distant memory by now. Thankfully, all three are with us and we get to enjoy the Spring Water Festival this Saturday in Williamston’s Spring Water Park.

Now celebrating its 27th anniversary, the Spring Water Festival will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. this Saturday. It’s one of the most popular events put on by the city and one that attracts thousands of people during just 10 hours of fun.

But in those 10 hours, they cram live music, great food, demonstrations, children’s entertainment and so much more on the grounds of the famed Spring Water Park.

“This festival draws the thousands because of everything we have to offer,” said Dianne Lollis, member of the Spring Water Festival committee. “We have crafters, food, entertainment and rides all located in a cool place and set to a family-friendly atmosphere. It’s great.”

For 2008, the festival has brought in country music singer/songwriter Julie Roberts, as well as a bevy of country, rock and gospel groups playing all day long. There will be more than 40 crafters selling their wares and 15 food vendors selling everything from hot dogs and funnel cakes to ice cream and barbecue.

There will be rides for the kids and child-friendly entertainment from clowns to karate demonstrations. And, of course, the Mineral Spring itself.

“That is still at the heart of this community,” Lollis said. “People used to come from all over to Williamston because they believed the spring’s water had healing powers. Even today, they come to the park to see it and enjoy the place.”

The Spring Water Festival is free and open to the public. All proceeds from the event go to the continuation of the annual Christmas Park and renovations to the Spring Water Park. For more information, go online to www.springwaterfestival.com.