t's that time again where people gather from near and far to enjoy the annual Mush, Music & Mutts: NC Liver Mush Festival!

This festival began in 1985 and has grown and transformed since then into a multifaceted event which has become a big draw for Shelby. 2019 and 2022 had estimated attendance of 10,000 - 15,000 based on mobile analytics data and attendee surveys with about 10-15% of those visitors coming from more than 50 miles away.

The 2023 Festival is Saturday, October 21st from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm and will be in Uptown Shelby around the historic court square. Cleveland County Tourism, RollOver Pets and the City of Shelby all partner to bring
several special elements.

Since liver mush is a micro-regional food with deep roots, as are the music traditions of Cleveland County, the focus is on celebrating and highlighting these elements to our community and beyond. RollOver Pets added the very popular Pet Festival in 2010 which continues to be a big hit and draw dogs and their owners from near and far. Guests can also enjoy a Pet Costume
Parade, Pet Costume Contest, Dynamo Dogs and many pet themed vendors and services. Well behaved dogs and their owners are welcome. Proof of rabies vaccinations is required.

The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (NCDCR) designated 2023 as NC Year of the Trail. NCDCR selected Shelby as one of 10 communities to be recognized for their trail system and ongoing efforts to enhance recreational resources in the community. The City of Shelby has planned a special weekend of events called Shelby Trail Days Event, October 20-22. They have partnered with the NC Liver Mush Festival to host their ribbon cutting for the Carolina Harmony Trail on October 21st during the festival!

Combined with all of the regular and exciting aspects of our Liver Mush Festival, this is going to be one for the books. Our goal has been to continue to draw visitors into Cleveland County. An important

part of doing that is showcasing our one-of-a-kind local businesses and partners like RollOver Pets, the City Of Shelby and all of our incredible sponsors and partners. It is because of them and the many volunteers that the NC Liver Mush Festival can happen and be enjoyed by everyone with no admission fees.

For more information and complete details of the event go to: www.nclivermushfestival.com. You'll find schedules for the various aspects of the festival and listings for the vendors listed under the Marketplace link. Parking information can can also be found on the website.

Visit the Liver Mush Festival information booth located in front of the Cleveland County Arts Council for local information, festival map/schedule or unique Liver Mush Festival merchandise Saturday, October 21, 2023 from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.