The Town of Ider will be hosting it’s 30th annual Mule Days this Monday. (Photo courtesy of the Town of Ider)
By C. Campbell, Staff Writer
IDER, Ala. — On Monday, September 5, the Town of Ider will host its 30th annual Mule Day Festival at the Ider Town Park, near the intersection of Highways 75 and 117.
“Volunteers have been key in doing this. Without them, there would be no Mule Day,” said Jackie Westbrooks, the Ider Town Clerk.
“We’re planning on this being the biggest one yet,” she added.
This year’s Mule Day will have a wide variety of activities to interest everyone. Miracle Pottery will set up and give a demonstration of their process, as will Walter Howell, a local blacksmith. There will also be a car show, a kids’ area with pony rides, arts and crafts displays, and several different musical acts.
In addition, crowd favorite events will be a part of the festivities. “The draft horse pull always draws a crowd,” Ider Mayor Wendy Lassetter said. “There’ll also be an obstacle course for the horses, which will be open to the public.”
While she explained that it was designed more for younger riders looking to gain experience doing such events, those in attendance who bring their own horses would be allowed to take part as well.
A few new events will be held at Mule Day as well, including an appearance by a vintage baseball team from Huntsville, playing by the rules of 1860. Mayor Lassetter expressed how exciting this was, having the team come and not only play a game, but also interact with the crowd.
The opening ceremony has also been planned as a key highlight of the festival. “It begins as the horses come into the park from the parade. The horses and riders are all dressed up, carrying flags,” Lassetter stated.
Based on her description, the opening ceremony is not only an exciting way to kick off the festivities, but also a touching moment for those in attendance to witness.
Gates to the Mule Day Festival will open at 7:30 AM, with the parade to start at 9:30. Parking is $3, and admission is $2, with children 5 and under getting in free.
All proceeds go to maintenance and purchasing new equipment for Ider Town Park.
