Marysville planning for peachy weekend

Local growers, vendors from throughout the state and two city blocks of amusement rides for kids are featured in this weekend's ninth annual Marysville Peach Festival in the city's downtown area.

Formerly known as the California Peach Festival, the annual event's name was changed this year to the Marysville festival to "bring back the feel for a local community event," noted organizer Shannon Jacobsen.

The festival is set from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday on D Street from First to Seventh streets.

In its ninth year, the event includes a wide variety of vendors in addition to five local growers, along with peaches in all their forms — ice cream, candy, smoothies, cobbler, pies, salsa.

The children's area from First to Third streets features amusement rides like those found at the Gilroy Garlic Festival and the Stockton Asparagus Festival, plus a children's craft area.

Additional activities on Saturday include a peach pie eating contest featuring local celebrities and music by Paul and the Pyronaunts and Tijuana Taxi. Live radio broadcasts are planned both days.

Many businesses will be open late Saturday and on Sunday.

"Literally (there is) something for everybody," Jacobsen said. Admission and parking are free.

The Marysville Peach Fest 5K run/walk will kick off the two-day celebration at 8 a.m. Saturday starting from in front of the Bok Kai Temple, First and D streets.

Registration starts at 7:15 a.m., with the course going into Beckwourth Riverfront Park and along the Fifth Street bridge pedestrian path.

Registration is $20 for adults and $10 for children 16 years and under on the day of the event. Money raised benefits the Yuba College Disabled Students Program.

While the run/walk takes place, the Peaches and Pancakes Breakfast will be served from 8 to 10:30 a.m. at the Silver Dollar Saloon, on First Street between D and C streets.

Cost is $5 per plate. The breakfast is sponsored by the Marysville Future Farmers of America Ag Boosters.

"I hope everyone comes out and has a great time," Jacobsen said. "That's what it's for."

The peach festival is sponsored by the city of Marysville, Yuba County and the Marysville Downtown Business Improvement District in addition to local businesses.

• What: Marysville Peach Festival

• When: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday

• Where: D Street, downtown Marysville