ENGELHARD — Come Saturday, the town of Engelhard will celebrate 30 years of its most popular festival.

Preparations are wrapping up for the annual Engelhard Seafood Festival, with setup continuing today and Friday, according to organizer Jo Ann Spencer.

“Everything’s going good. We’re making final preparations, taking care of everything that needs to be done,” Spencer said. “We’re just hoping and praying that the good Lord gives us some pretty weather.”

Last year’s festival was canceled as a result of Hurricane Matthew, so organizers are hoping for better conditions this time. Spencer said about 30 vendors are lined up for the festival — from food and craft shops, to churches and Engelhard Volunteer Fire Department.

The Seafood Festival kicks off with the “blessing of the fleet” at 9:30 a.m., followed by the festival’s official opening at 10 a.m. Saturday. Carnival rides and an aquarium touch tank will be available, and visitors can take tours of Hyde County’s historic Octagon House.

At 11 a.m., Marco Gibbs will share a presentation on the county’s history, including the fishing industry and its effects on the area. Spencer said the historic aspect of the festival is a special part of Saturday and highlights an important part of the community. Each year, the Seafood Festival honors local fishermen and their way of life.

“It makes me proud of being in this small community,” she said.

Jenny Bell Ministries and Steel County Express will provide entertainment, along with Julio Morales at the 7 p.m. street dance.

Spencer said she hopes residents will come out to the festival for fun, but also as a way to support their community.

“I certainly am hoping for a good turnout,” Spencer said. “It’s Labor Day weekend, so I’m hoping it’s going to be a good, busy weekend for everybody.”

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

9:30 a.m. –­­– Blessing of the fleet

10 a.m. to 7 p.m. –– Opening of festival, rides open

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. –– Aquarium touch tank

11 a.m. to noon –– Hyde County history by Marco Gibbs

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. –– Octagon House open house

1 p.m. to 3 p.m. –– Music by Jenny Bell Ministries

4 p.m. to 6 p.m. –– Music by Steel County Express

7 p.m. –– Street dance with Julio Morales