Each year, the Chilton County Peach Festival culminates in a weekend packed with activities for all types of people – visitors who buy peaches, residents who enjoy eating peaches and farmers who grow peaches.

The festival’s final event is dedicated to the last group, whose members spend countless hours cultivating the county’s coveted crop.

“We do try to recognize the farmers throughout the Peach Festival for all that they do in making our festival a success,” festival chairman Wayne Caton said.

The 2012 Peach Auction will be held Saturday, June 30 at 10 a.m. at Clanton City Park. The auction is put on by the Clanton Lions Club.

Caton said the peaches need to be at Jack Hayes Field by 7 a.m. that day.

Judging will take place at 8 a.m., and awards will include first, second, third and fourth place, as well as several honorable mentions. Winners will receive prize money.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit local charities supported by the Clanton Lions Club.

“All of the money that’s raised from the festival and the Peach Auction goes to help local charities and stays right here in the county,” Caton said.

Additionally, state politicians, possibly including Gov. Robert Bentley, are expected to attend the auction, giving peach growers a chance to gain publicity for their businesses.

“The peaches are just known all over the state,” Caton said. “Because of the taste and the quality of our peaches, we do try to advertise them throughout the state.”

Growers interested in submitting a basket of peaches should contact Caton at (205) 389-5742 or stop by Bar-D to pick up an empty basket.

Each basket of peaches must have the grower’s name, address and the variety of peach submitted. No entry fee is required.