By Michael Butler

The Tallassee Chamber of Commerce invites the community out for Trade Day on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Most of the festivities will be on King Street, the spot where Trade Day began in 1989.

“We’ve had so much positive feedback about bringing it back to King Street,” said Carmen Rodgers, executive director of the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce. “It brings back fond memories of the past for so many people in Tallassee. We’re happy to bring it back, and I believe the community is as well.”

Vendors with knickknacks, arts and crafts and food will be available.

“We’ve got 66 vendors,” Rodgers said on Tuesday morning. “We’ll also have a petting zoo, pony lead outs and a unicorn.”

At the corner of James and Sistrunk Streets downtown, there will be a barbecue cookoff. Jamie Thompson is coordinating the competition.

“We have four judges with five categories: four meats and a peoples’ choice,” Thompson said. “For the people’s choice, you’ll pay $10, sample everybody’s food and judge on all four categories.”

Barbecue contestants will set up at 5 p.m. on Friday. Generators will be required. Entry fee is $25 per category. Boston Butts, ribs (wet/dry) and chicken must be cooked on site.

“Camp stew meat may be cooked at home, but all meats have to be cold when registering,” Thompson added. “Friday night, we’re looking to have live music starting at 7 on the green space.”

Trophies and prizes will be awarded for the top three finishers: 1st ($300), 2nd ($200), 3rd ($100).