My Summer Vacation = Staycation!

Last year I highlighted several of the area attractions in and around Mount Vernon Ohio here. In an effort to conserve gas and save money, we decided to do things and see things in our hometown areas.

This year is NO different!!!

Money is even tighter. Kids are older and they want to do things. So I have come up with even more activities that our family will be doing! And once again this year, I am teaming up again with many bloggers around the country to come up with hundreds of ideas to enjoy many cities, including MOUNT VERNON, OHIO,  on a budget!

Many of the ideas that I highlighted last year are still viable options for things to do, but this year one of our main areas of focus is going to be on going to the local festivals and fairs. Most of these offer free admission! (And most of the money that we will spend if any will go to local craftors and vendors! A win-win in my book!)

June 14-16, 2012 is the Danville-Howard Turkey Festival. This small town festival is free to attend and features lots of activities for the family. The Festival encompasses a wide variety of activity including: live music, including the country band "Confederate Railroad" performing this year. There is also a car show, concessions, rides, vendors, etc.



June 27-30, 2012 is the Heart of Ohio USA Days Festival in Centerburg. This festival features live entertainment, a car show, vendors, excellent food and an event the whole family will love--- A HUGE fireworks display on Saturday night of the festival!

July 23- 28, 2012 is the Knox County Fair! We went to this last year and had a great time! There is definitely something for everyone. Animals that are raised through 4-H and are on display for all to see. Fair rides, concessions, games, etc. There are also live events such as lawn mower racing, school bus races, and live music. This year's feature entertainer is the up-and-coming country group "Thompson Square."



August 9-12, 2012 is the "Dan Emmett Music and Arts Festival" in downtown Mount Vernon.  Held to celebrate the legacy of Daniel Decatur Emmett, author of such songs as "Dixie" and "Turkey in the Straw," the Dan Emmett Music and Arts Festival showcases artists and musicians performing such styles as bluegrass, country, folk, oldies, rock-n-roll, Christian and big band. The festival highlights also include a car show, a motorcycle show, a civil war re-enactment, many contests including "Knox Idol," a quilt show and lots of yummy food!



In between attending these great fairs and festivals, we will also be enjoying going to local farmers' markets, visiting our local parks and just enjoy having simple summer fun! If you come to visit Mount Vernon and Knox County Ohio I hope you take advantage of some of these family fun activities!