To recognize the impact that cotton and cotton farming has had on the region, the Harnett County city of Dunn has hosted for 13 years the North Carolina Cotton Festival in early November. Now known as the Touchstone Energy NC Cotton Festival, sponsored by North Carolina’s electric cooperatives, the event attracts more than 10,000 people.

Because of renovations in progress downtown, the festival this year will be held 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5, at Clarence Lee Tart Memorial Park just south of town (I-95 Exit 72).

You’ll roam the grounds and see stages with live entertainment, carnival rides and games, a big classic car show, a kids park, karaoke, arts, crafts and food vendors.

Once known as one of the nation’s largest cotton wagon yards, Dunn is proud of its association with cotton farming. The Touchstone Energy cooperative headquartered here, South River EMC, organizes a photography contest each year and announces the grand prize winner at its booth where the pictures are on display. A nearby cotton gin hosts tours throughout the festival. And all things cotton are evident wherever you go.

Among the acts scheduled for the main stage are Alicia’s School of Dance, Janice’s Fabulous Feet, Benson Line Dancers, Hip Pocket, Rendance, Dance Effex, and Emily Minor.