CHESHIRE, Mass. – The Cheshire Cheese Festival returns Saturday with more cheese and more attractions.

 

The event commemorating the 1,234-pound Cheshire Mammoth Cheese’s trip to the White House in 1802 starts at 10 am with the Cheesy 5k run and after that the Cheshire Cheese Festival gates open at the Cheshire elementary school grounds at 11. 

 

"It is important to get people out with their family and have some fun," Organizer Justin Kruszyna said. "Also, to bring people from outside of Cheshire into Cheshire to learn about the history of our town’s mammoth historical event."

 

When asked what will be new this year Kruszyna simply stated "more cheese."

 

Cricket Creek, Cream of the Crop Farm, Couet Farm & Fromagerie, Thomas Farm, Rolling Rock Salts and Whitney’s Farm stand will all be represented at the event.

 

Kruszyna said Cream of the Crop Farm will be bringing something special for Cheshire’s 225th anniversary they have been celebrating this year. 

 

"Cream of the Crop Farm will be bringing a mini 25-pound cheese in honor of the Mammoth cheese," he said. 

 

Also, new this year will be the Cheese Cave where local historian Barry Emery and local author Kristen Demeo will talk about their books about the history of the Cheshire Mammoth Cheese. Town historical artifacts will also be on display as well as cheese making kits.

 

There will also be food vendors and Big Daddy's Cheesesteak and Mountain Top Country Meats will offer cheese-centric menus.

 

Kruszyna added that Sisters of Anarchy from Shelburne Vt. will also be at the event. 

 

"They specialize in farm to cone small batch ice cream," Kruszyna said.

 

Kruszyna said there will be carnival rides, more outdoor games, a clown, a DJ and a live band.

 

Kruszyna said he not only hopes that the event will instill a sense of Cheshire pride but also help farmers and other businesses involved.

 

"Events like this help the local community, the farmers who make the cheese, and the vendors to grow their businesses," he said. "This event is tailored for the entire family to enjoy."

 

Kruszyna said proceeds will go to local community charities and towards the third annual Cheese Fest. He said the group is also exploring an outdoor recreational grant to build a park downtown.

 

"We would like to use some of the money to help with the initial site planning for a park downtown that the entire community could enjoy," he said. "Potentially including athletic fields, skate park, community gardens and an area for outdoor concerts."

 

The event is rain or shine and if the weather looks bad the event will be moved to the school. The event costs $5 but children five and under can get in for free.

 

"I encourage everyone to go outdoors and enjoy a fun-filled event for any age," he said. "Grab some cheese, food, a beverage and listen to live music while you can shop at the craft vendor tents. The more that come the more we will be able to grow and enhance the festival."