WALLACE — The 40th annual Wallace Huckleberry Festival kicks off this weekend, and organizers are hoping for a record-setting turnout.

Christine Berry, who took over festival leadership last year, has been working to build on decades of success.

“I'm honored to be keeping the festival going," she said.

Berry’s first priority was to make the most of the three-day schedule, Friday to Sunday, adding more hours and reviving beloved events while introducing new ones.

“We're bringing back the Huckleberry Bake-Off, a fun and tasty competition that has been missed," Berry said. "And, we're featuring a new youth art exhibit in the Northern Pacific Depot to showcase the talents of our local youth.”

Festival staples such as the 5K Fun Run and the Huckleberry Hound contest return, along with live music and vendors.

The Huckleberry Festival is consistently one of Wallace’s busiest weekends of the summer. Berry attributes its enduring popularity to the care and creativity poured into it over the years.

“What I love most about Huck Fest is the family-friendly vibes," Berry said. "I love seeing families spend time together enjoying the festival and visiting our local businesses. I feel so lucky to live in Wallace, and I love that visitors to the Huck Fest get to experience this magical place, too.”

Shuttle service will be available from the Wallace Chamber’s Visitor Center.

Info: www.wallacehuckfest.com