Johnny Appleseed Festival runs this weekend

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - The smell of kettle corn, ham and beans, grilled chicken and turkey legs will soon fill the air at Johnny Appleseed Park.

And, of course, apples.

This weekend, thousands will descend to the park for the annual Johnny Appleseed Festival .

The period-dated festival attracts people from all over to celebrate the history of Johnny Appleseed, dating back to the early 1800's. Dozens of food venders, craft exhibitors, entertainment and a children's area return this year.

This is the 38th edition of the festival.

Most workers are dressed in outfits dating to the time of Appleseed's life. Food served at the festival cannot be cooked using gas, vendors can only use items that were available 200 years ago.

Click here for a .pdf version of the festival brochure.

Live demonstrations featuring artillery take place near the St. Joseph River. Artifacts and items from the American Civil War will be on display at a military encampment.

The free admission festival runs 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Parking at Memorial Coliseum is available for a fee, but free parking is available at IPFW and Concordia High School. Buses will run between IPFW and festival both days for no charge.

Opening ceremonies begin at 10 a.m. Saturday near the grave marker.