AULANDER –Boiled, roasted, or even green, there’s no one perfect way to eat one of the southland’s favorite foods other than just opening up and let your taste buds just enjoy the experience.

And that could also be said of Aulander’s first Peanut Festival.

Held at Aulander Park and Fitness Track on Rice Avenue, the event attracted hundreds to the small Bertie County hamlet.

The all-day event featured activities for families including lots of food, arts and crafts, business vendors, live entertainment, and games for the kids. Organizers say this is one of their biggest crowds yet.

In an area where the economy is driven by agriculture this was the ideal celebration and recognition of one of the chief crops of the area.

The Golden Peanut Company, who’s shelling and processing plant is located in the town, was one of the Festival’s main backers according to Aulander Mayor Larry Drew.

“It took a lot of work,” Drew said. “We had the idea last year and for the last couple of months about 30 or 40 people really dedicated to making this work have met every Tuesday to get things rolling.”

Bobbi Parker, a member of the Aulander Town Council spearheaded the drive with the help of Golden Peanut and her crew of workers and staffers.

“We wanted a family-centered event,” explained Parker.  “This is sort of a big county fair for Aulander and we don’t want the citizens to be discouraged.  Businesses may go, but people stay.”

“Aulander’s still breathing,” chimed in Drew, as the pair prepared to open the ceremonies at a special stage set up at the park. “We’re making things happen, and making sure that they have fun.”

During the ceremony, young Alyse Powell was recognized.  Powell is the Aulander Elementary School student who designed the logo for the 2014 festival.

Liz Hale and Kevin Stinson, two executives with Golden Peanut manned the company booth where they handed out samples of their wares.

“We’re happy to give back to the community,” said Stinson, the Plant Supervisor. “A lot of our employees are from right here in Bertie County.”

“There’s been a lot of planning,” added Hale, who works in GPC’s Human Resources department. “I’m just glad to finally see it happen.”

The day began with a 5K road race and 1.5 mile walk.  Windsor’s Jonathan Huddleston took first place in the run with a time of 19:51 while the women’s top finisher was Katelyn Mahoney of Murfreesboro.

The Bertie High School Marching Band, complete with Flag Girls and the Falcon Dancers, delighted the crowd, and made a parade lap around the park.

There was a Car and Motorcycle Show featuring some outstanding automobiles and bikes.

After Drew welcomed everyone with the opening ceremonies things got underway and lasted until 10 p.m.

“From the town Fire Department, Police Department, Library, and Gym,” this has truly been a town festival for everybody,” said Drew.