SALEMBURG — In a few days, the town will be filled with children dressed as superheroes, princesses and goblins.

Salemburg Elementary’s Annual Fall Festival is scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26 at 404 E. College St., Salemburg. The event is being hosted by the PTO, an organization consisting of volunteers associated with the school.

“Come out and have some fun,” said Principal Gerald Johnson.

Johnson and school leaders looking forward to the event, which is open to the public. It was cancelled in 2016 because of Hurricane Matthews, which put many traditional events in Sampson County on a brief hiatus.

“There’s excitement in the air because we didn’t have one last year, so we’re trying to get ready,” Johnson said. “The kids really look forward to it and we do too.”

Prior to the festival, students will participate in a parade scheduled for 1:30 p.m. During previous events, Lakewood High School’s cheerleaders, band and Junior ROTC students participated in the event. Sampson County School officials, town leaders and emergency personnel also distribute treats.

“You’ll see a lot of kids dressed up in their Halloween costumes,” Johnson said about the annual tradition. “It’s been going on since the 1960s, if not earlier.”

During the event, later in the evening, teachers and PTO officers will host a variety of activities for students. Some of them include a silent auction, hunted house, disco, face painting, photo booth, cakewalk, bounce house, bowling, golfing and bingo. There will also be a concession stand for purchases. Proceeds will benefit the school.

“It’s going to be a fun night,” Johnson said.

Salemburg Elementary School students participants participate in the annual Fall Festival Parade.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/web1_Stand-Alone_3.jpgSalemburg Elementary School students participants participate in the annual Fall Festival Parade.

By Chase Jordan

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