Plans are shaping up for this year’s rendition of the Lacombe Culture & Harvest Festival.

This year’s event, which Lacombe Regional Tourism organizers describe as bigger and better than ever, runs Sept. 23-24 at the Lacombe Ag grounds.

“This year, we have a lot more members and community groups participating,” said local artist Savannah Severin, who will be offering demos and selling her own art onsite. She is also in charge of seeking out other artists and artisans to take part in the Festival.

This year’s event has an even greater focus on agricultural components, she said.

“I’ve been a part of it for three years now, and each year, it’s getting bigger and bigger. This year, there are five or six buildings that will be utilized on the ag grounds,” she said.

“We have a lot more space and a lot more components.

“KT Events Planning is also bringing in a full-on market side to it. Where I have an artisan show and sale with live demos in one building, they will be doing a full market in another building,” she explained. “There will be 60 to 70 spots in that specific barn which are all vendor-based.

“We will also be having live demos from about 10 to 11 artists, and surrounding us will be the entire artisan market,” she explained.

This will include all sorts of makers, bakers, growers — much like a public market, she said.

There will also be a toy show and sale as well.

“Of course, there will be our live performances and demos, too. We have different groups coming in, much like last year,” she said.

These will run the gamut from the Red Deer Aboriginal Dance Troupe and a silk aerial performance to the Country Pride Dance Club, belly dancers, and Taekwondo demonstrations.

“Anyone else out there who is a talented dancer, singer, performer, or in some other way would like to be involved on the agricultural, heritage, or artisan front, we are always happy to make room for them — we are always seeking out talented local individuals.”

Those interested in signing up can get in touch with organizers via email at info@lacombetourism.com or by phone at 403-782-1046.

Meanwhile, she said the planning team is thrilled to see the Festival’s continuing growth from year to year.

“I think it is absolutely wonderful,” she said. “It’s great to see so many different groups within Lacombe all working together to help plan this event. It’s great for the community and the surrounding areas.”

Other key partnerships include the Lacombe Performing Arts Centre and of course the Lacombe & District Agriculture Society and the LA Vintage Machinery Club.

Other highlights over the weekend include tractor pulls, a duck herder, live demos from a chainsaw carver, and local blacksmiths and thrashing demos.

“We have the Flying Cross Ranch coming in as well,” she said, adding that a plethora of local sponsors have stepped up to help support the Festival.

“Whether you are someone who loves agriculture or heritage, or you love arts and culture — there will be a component there for everyone of all ages,” she said.

“There is a lot going on!”

Gate admission is $5 per person or $10 per family. Youths ages 12 and under are admitted free of charge.

For updates, check out Lacombe Tourism online at www.lacombetourism.com or follow them on their social media platforms.

Savannah of SASART poses with some of her vibrant works of art in Lacombe. She will be creating works as well during the Lacombe Culture and Harvest Festival coming up Sept. 23-25. Mark Weber/Lacombe Express