Maria Stein goes country

MARIA STEIN - Have you ever seen tractors do-si-do before?

Would you like to?

You needn't travel far to see such a stunt. This year's Maria Stein Country Fest has plenty of original entertainment for all your show-me-something-different needs.

While there is plenty to see and do on the festival's three-day agenda, the square-dancing tractors attract the most attention by far, said Country Fest committee member Don Huelskamp. Now that the festival is entering its 21st year, Huelskamp said the local residents who perform the tractor square dance have the routine fine-tuned to a science.

"They've got it down to where they're close enough they actually shake hands while swinging with the tractors," he said.

Another staple at Country Fest is chainsaw woodcarving from carvers Tim, Mack and Luke Kuenning. The three are known for crafting multiple shapes and designs from simple chunks of wood, Huelskamp said, which are then auctioned off on the festival's final day.

"They start with an 18-inch log and then they start cutting away at it," he said. "They can make eagles or ears of corn. You name it, whatever you think of that can be carved with a chainsaw, they can do it. They're really amazing."

Besides the festival's returning favorites, Huelskamp said the festival's entertainment changes every year. This summer's main attraction is The Flying Wallendas, a high wire act known for serious stunts. The festival will also feature big wheel races for children and adults, stunt jump roping, jugglers and more.

Best of all, Huelskamp said, the festival costs absolutely nothing to attend.

"The only thing you have to pay for is food," he said. "If you don't eat or drink all day, you can stay there for nothing, and I guarantee you'll be entertained all day."

Maria Stein Country Fest

WHEN: 5 p.m. today, 9 a.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. Sunday

WHERE: 2291 St. Johns Road, Maria Stein

COST: Free

FOR MORE INFO: Visit www.mscountryfest.com or call 419-925-4151.

Highlights

Today

5 to 10 p.m.: Craft show

6 p.m. to midnight: Rides and concessions open

7:30 p.m.: Hot air balloon launch

8:30 p.m.: The Flying Wallendas

10 p.m.: Hot air balloon glow

Saturday

10 a.m. to 9 p.m.: Craft show

Noon to close: Rides and concessions open

2 p.m.: Gem City Jumpers

2 p.m.: Tractor square dancing

3 p.m.: The Flying Wallendas

7 p.m.: Adult big wheel race

8 p.m. to midnight: No Bull Band

9 p.m.: The Flying Wallendas

10 p.m.: Tractor square dancing

Sunday

9 a.m.: Mercer Health 5K run/walk

11:30 a.m.: Rides and concessions open

Noon to 5 p.m.: Craft show

2 p.m. Mini Indy race

2 p.m.: The Walt Schmitmeyer Band

2:30 p.m.: The Flying Wallendas

3:30 p.m. Tractor square dancing

6:30 p.m.: Woodcarving auction

7 to 11 p.m.: Borrowed Time Band with Fiddler

8 p.m.: The Flying Wallendas

9:30 p.m.: Tractor square dancing

10:30 p.m.: Fireworks