Anyone looking for a fun outdoor activity on Saturday, July 26 can pop by Kitchell Park in Pana for their 2nd annual Popcorn Festival.  The event consists of many contests and other fun activities – along with plenty of popcorn – all day long.  Organizers hope the low costs and logistical improvements will attract many attendees and that the weather holds out despite the threat of rain and storms. 

Nicole Blodgett is with the Pana Parks Revitalization Committee.  She says the action begins early in the morning with recreational sports, pageants, and running events. 

Attendance and parking at the festival are free, while certain activities have a small fee for taking part.  Blodgett says this provides a low barrier for people to participate, while also investing in future park events in Pana. 

The organizers have restructured how parking will work.  The primary location will be at the nearby soccer fields to keep cars away from the main setup.

Summer events in Central Illinois have been hit-or-miss when it comes to weather, and the Pana Popcorn Festival could have a similar clash with mother nature.  As of Tuesday afternoon, the National Weather Service forecasts a 40% chance of thunderstorms on Saturday.  Organizers, however, are ready for anything. 

More information on the Pana Popcorn Festival is available at their Facebook page.

Nicole Blodgett appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.