Whether residents and visitors like arts and crafts, have a passion for pups or can make the best sweets in the south, the 16th Annual Creekbank Festival on Saturday, April 24 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. offers a little something for everyone.

The Creekbank Festival sponsored by the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce is free to the public and strives to bring the community together in a wholesome atmosphere that showcases Leeds Memorial Park on Hwy. 119.

Local musicians will entertain in the park and there will be plenty of activities for all ages including arts, crafts and rides. Local artisans will also be on hand displaying their crafts tinged with southern charm. 

A healthy dose of competition is also in the works for the event including the Sweets Bake Off, the Mr. and Ms. Creek Bark Dog Pageant and the Miss Creekbank Pageant.

Organizers admit the Sweets Bake Off is the perfect opportunity to showcase confectionary skills and the Mr. and Ms. Creek Bark Dog Pageant gives special notice to four-legged friends. Both events have several categories that allow residents and their pets to take home a special crown.

The Miss Creekbank Pageant will take place Saturday, April 17 at 1 p.m. and the winning contestants will be introduced at the Creekbank Festival. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for ages 12 and under. Each contestant will receive a complimentary ticket.

Applications for the event are available online at www.leedsareacahmber.com. Ages Divisions include Baby Miss for 0 to 23 months, Mini Miss for ages two to three, Tiny Miss for four years to kindergarten, Little Miss for first through third graders, Petite Miss for fourth and fifth graders, Young Miss for sixth to eighth grade, Junior Miss for ninth to eleventh grade and Miss Creek Bank for twelfth grade. All age divisions will have a queen, first, second and third runner-up as well as a winner in each category including prettiest dress, prettiest hair, prettiest eyes and prettiest smile. There will also be an overall People’s Choice winner. People’s Choice votes cost $1 and can be submitted the day of the pageant. Executive Director of the Leeds Chamber of Commerce Sandra McGuire said the event is a natural beauty walk and all participants will receive and award.

Entry fees for the event are $40 and must be received by April 12. The event is open to everyone. For additional information contact Sandra McGuire at 699-5001.

McGuire said she excited about the events and that the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce has a very active committee this year. “I think the Creekbank Festival brings a sense of community to the area,” said McGuire. “It was established as something for the community to be involved in and a day of fun. It’s a time for area crafters and entertainers to showcase their heritage.” She added that over the years it has grown.

The March of Dimes will hold their annual walk starting at 9 a.m before the Creekbank Festival begins.

The Cahaba Riverkeeper Duck Derby will also be in Leeds Historical Park in conjunction with the Creekbank Festival. The Cahaba Duck Derby is a river race that includes prizes and fun for the whole family. The proceeds will benefit the Cahaba Riverkeeper. For more information visit www.cahabariverkeeper.org or call 205-967-2600 to adopt a duck.

Entertainers and artisans who would like to take part in the Creekbank Festival are asked to contact the chamber office or call Sandra McGuire at 699-5001.