The countdown begins for the popular Madison Street Festival.

This event brings residents and thousands of other visitors to downtown Madison. There were reportedly over 30,000 attendees at last year’s festival. It is by far the most special gathering of the year for our community.

The best part is the admission is free.

The festival is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 3.

This is a time when our community showcases its many talents.

A parade will kick off the festivities at 9 a.m., followed by a full day of good family fun. The event will offer arts and crafts, a children’s area, a petting zoo, free pony rides and over 200 vendors. Live music will be played on two stages in beautiful downtown.

There will be food vendors and food trucks to help your family recharge.

There is even a cool car show during the festival.

The Madison Street Festival is not possible without the many volunteers, vendors and sponsors.  Sharon Holcombe, 2015 president of the Madison Street Festival, and her committee should be commended for the months of planning and preparations.

Please look inside the Wednesday, Sept. 30 edition of The Madison Record for the 2015 Madison Street Festival Guide.

This guide will offer a map, schedules and other event details for your family to plan a special Saturday in Madison.