Fresh off Friday night’s successful Relay for Life, Atmore is getting ready for another big event this weekend as Mayfest gets under way.

Mayfest 2013 will feature arts and crafts vendors, food, a Beautiful Baby contest, entertainment from 31 South Band and other musicians, and a Pooch Parade.

We’re hoping for good weather for the event, but no matter what, we expect that it will be a great time to enjoy what has grown into a signature festival in our community.

The Beautiful Baby contest has become a favorite, and the entertainment slated for Mayfest is sure to attract a crowd as well.

And on the heels of that festival, Atmore will host a new event later in May: ARTmore, a gallery event that will local and regional artists, demonstrations, food and entertainment.

The brainchild of Atmore native James Amerson, ARTmore has grown from a showcase of artists’ work to a full-fledged festival of its own.

Set for Saturday, May 18, from 4 to 8 p.m., the event is more than just a gallery of work — there will be photography, paintings, pottery, jewelry, musicians and writers.

Jeff Glickman and the Panhandle Allstars will perform, and Jardin Foundry will do demonstrations — you will actually be able to make your own metal piece, if you like. And First City Arts Center of Pensacola will demonstrate a Raku firing.

Amerson and his team did a great job planning for this first event, and we’re so glad that not only will there be a variety of events to attract residents and visitors, there will be such a showcase of our local talent.

Kerry Whipple Bean is publisher of The Atmore Advance.