Merrimack festival to go on rain or shine

MERRIMACK – Rain forecast for the weekend won’t stop a major community event scheduled for Saturday.

The second Merrimack Fall Festival and Business Expo will go on rain or shine, according to event organizers, who will decide Friday at noon whether exhibitors and entertainers will be moved to indoor locations.

Plans call for 120 local businesses and community organizations to attend, along with a host of entertainers and sports opportunities.

Admission to all events is free, as is parking at Merrimack High School, the American Legion and for the disabled at Our Lady of Mercy church.

Here are some events on tap.

Abbie Griffin bandstand: All day: Country, folk and oldies-style music by five different groups.

American Legion field: 1:30 p.m.: Softball game between Merrimack police officers and former Red Sox and New England Patriots stars and other celebrities.

James Mastricola school complex parking lot: All day: Raffles, drawings; 11 a.m.: Family sing-along by singer/songwriter Scott Kepnes; Noon: Merrimack High School football and cheerleading pep rally; 1 p.m.: “Merrimack Idol” 2006 winner Jennifer Annand; 1:30 p.m.: “Merrimack Idol 2008” contest.

Mastricola All-Purpose Room: All day: Dancing, cooking and self-defense demonstrations.

Mastricola baseball diamond: 11 a.m.: Baseball clinic hosted by Nashua Pride pitching coach John Roper.

Mastricola Smith Gym: All day: Merrimack High School FIRST Robotics Team demonstrations.

O’Gara Drive: Farmers market, featuring 12 local establishments selling flowers, shrubs produce and other items.

O’Gara Field: 10 a.m.: NFL-sponsored pass, punt and kick contest. (Registration is at 9 a.m.)

Town Hall parking lot: All day: Merrimack fire and police department demonstrations; Our Lady of Mercy church parking lot; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Classic and antique car show.

For more information, check out www.merrimacknh.gov/ town/about/fall festival.