BELLBROOK, Ohio (WKEF) — The 45th annual Sugar Maple festival is set to happen April 25-27 in the downtown area and locals have started the preparation.

This year’s event includes the return of the expanded entertainment tent and extended bar hours, along with two nights of entertainment from two popular local bands – Britches Down and Stranger.

The festival is also set to bring a new addition to the event’s features: coffee and doughnut vendors. These vendors are scheduled to be open during the traditional parade. The Bellbrook Fire Department will also host a hot dog eating contest.

As always, the festival will provide free children’s activities, crafts, a 5K run/walk, a dog show and authentic Maple Syrup.

Community members geared up to prepare for the event in all aspects.

High school junior, Dylan Hunter, is proud to be a part of a special tradition of his community. As part of his studies in electrical engineering, he has volunteered his time to help set up the electricity for the festival.

“We’re here to make sure it’s up and running and that everything is running smoothly,” he said.

Hunter expressed excitement for all the festival has to offer and encouraged locals to participate in the fun.

“People should come down here because it’s great food,” he said. “There’s going to be a lot of fun events, and it’s a great time to bring your family.”

The Sugar Maple Festival schedule is as follows:

Friday, April 25

• Beer Garden & Country Night – 5 to 10:00 p.m.
• Food Vendors – 5 to 9:00 p.m.
• Live Band – Britches Down – 6 to 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 26

• Pancake Breakfast – 8 to 10:30 a.m.
• 5K Registration – 8 a.m.
• 5K Run Start – 9 a.m.
• Free Shuttle – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Craft Vendors – 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Food Vendors – 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Parade Start – 10:30 a.m.
• Children’s Activities in Park – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Entertainment in the Park – Noon to 4:30 p.m.
• Beer Garden – Noon to 10 p.m.
• Hot Dog Eating Contest – 4 to 5 p.m.
• Live Band – Stranger – 6 to 10 p.m.

Sunday, April 27

• Free Shuttle – 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Craft and Food Vendors 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Entertainment 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Children’s Activities in the Park Noon – 4 p.m.
• Dog Show Registration – 12:30 p.m.
• Dog Show – 1 p.m.

For more information visit the Sugar Maple Festival website.