The 65th annual Gwynn’s Island Festival, scheduled to take place Saturday from 9 a.m.-3:45 p.m. at the Gwynn’s Island Civic Center promises to be a "fantastic 65th, weather-permitting," said festival spokesperson Cricket Call.

Along with the old favorites, Call said the festival will feature several new musical groups this year. The lineup of performers, who will play all day, include the Soul Seeking Disciples, New Ranger, Suite 101, Spreading Joy and the Route 17 band. Musicians Jean Howard and Peggy Alee will also be playing.

The famous chicken dinner, a favorite of many to kick off the festival, will take place Friday evening at the Civic League building. Dinner takeout will start at 4:30 p.m., while the sit-down dinner is scheduled from 5-7 p.m.

Pre-purchased tickets are $10 and tickets at the door will be sold for $12. To purchase a ticket for the chicken dinner, stop by the Mathews Visitor and Information Center or call Sandy Mikulecky at 725-9536, Call at 72...