Sea of faces: En Fuego typically draws between 20,000 and 30,000 people to an open field near Verbena.

In 13 years of En Fuego, crowds have experienced nearly every kind of weather imaginable — scorching heat, rain and strong winds. But this year may turn out to be one of the best.

Volunteers are hoping a cool front will make Saturday’s En Fuego more comfortable. Either way, crowds are expected to meet or exceed the 20,000 mark once again.

“We’ve had some hot En Fuegos, we’ve had some wet En Fuegos, but it looks like this one ought to be just right,” said En Fuego Board member Kevin George.

Even though the Christian music festival is free, George said he has received numerous inquiries about tickets. He wants people to know that both parking and admission are free.

“Everything out there says it’s a free event,” he said.

A wide variety of concessions will be available for purchase. Options range from shrimp kabobs to pizza to cheesecake on a stick. Bands will also have merchandise booths with CDs, T-shirts and much more.

Headlining this year’s lineup is Christian rock group Kutless. Recently on tour with Casting Crowns, they have released a new album and a worship project containing the song “That’s What Faith Can Do,” which has been the No. 1 modern worship song in the country.

Kutless will share the stage with Ohio Avenue, Pillar, Addison Road, Group 1 Crew, Robbie Seay Band, Disowning Kaleb and Steel Fading. The entertainment will begin as gates open at 11 a.m. and last well into the evening.

At about 5 p.m., David Nasser will speak. En Fuego cofounder Travis Crim will emcee the festival.

George said En Fuego wouldn’t be possible without the hundreds of volunteers that donate their time and energy. He said more than 430 volunteer T-shirts were ordered.

“That doesn’t count the counselors, people taking up offerings, volunteer fire departments and the sheriff’s department,” he added.

Directions to En Fuego: From I-65 Exit 205, take U.S. Highway 31 south through Verbena, turn left on County Road 23 and follow the signs. Both onsite and offsite parking is offered, and shuttle buses are utilized to transport people to and from the site.

To learn more about En Fuego, visit enfuegoinfo.com or call (205) 516-0467.