This will be my second time at the Belleville National Strawberry Festival. This year, AmericaJR.com is one of the sponsors of the big event held annually on Father's Day Weekend. Look for us in the official program of the festival and in newspaper advertisements. The entire Belleville community comes together to celebrate with music and fun for everyone!!

The festival spans across the entire Downtown Belleville area. There is bingo, carnical rides, beer, entertainment and food at the St. Anthony's Catholic Church. You will find delicious Strawberry desserts at the Trinity Episcopal Church. Look for juried crafts and a good tent at the Belleville Presbyterian church.

The downtown area is the most lively. You'll find crafts, food and commercial vendors, three musical stages, carnival rides and games plus special sales from local retailers. This is also where the Parade is held on Saturday at 11 a.m. I've been to the parade last year and let me tell you, it's something to see. The parade lasts over an hour long.

Belleville High School (BHS) is where you will see the Strawberry Queen Pageant on Friday at 7:30 p.m. This is also where you can eat at the Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast on Saturday from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. You will also be able to take helicopter rides here.

What's so special about the strawberry festival?

You will be able to visit and interact with special exhibits that you won't find anywhere else. For example, you will be able to meet NBA players and legends at the NBA Rhythm 'n Rims exhibit. DJ Dallas Green will be providing the music. This sports exhibit will be located on Main Street between 3rd and 4th streets.

The 5th Annual Cinnamon's Father's Day Car Show. This isn't your normal car show. It is located at the Shady Victory Park at 5 Points from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 30 trophies will be handed out along with hourly prizes, a DJ, music trivia and more.

What's now to love? Strawberries...Strawberries and more strawberries. Any way you can think of making a strawberry is at the festival. From strawberry pie to strawberry shortcake to strawberry jam, you'll find it all at this festival.

The Rise Above BMX Stunt Team returns to the festival. Watch these impressive bicycle stunts and jumps at the Frosty Boy located on Main St. All weekend long on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Bring the kids for this one!

The entertainment is top notch!

There will be three stages of music going on simultaneously at the Belleville Strawberry Festival. You've all heard of "American Idol." In Belleville, there is the Strawberry Idol competition. There will be three divisions -- Adult, Teen and Junior. The Strawberry Idol competition is on Sunday, June 18th on the Main Stage. It begins at 1 p.m. with the adults, continues with the Teens at 3 p.m. and concludes with the juniors at 5 p.m.

You will find all types of music at the festival. From country to rock to christian and gospel, there is something for everyone. Did I mention that the music is FREE? Well, it is!!! If that doesn't get you interested, I don't know what will.

I would like to point out that the country Strawberry Jam is on Saturday, June 17th on the Main Stage. It is a complete day of nothin' but country back to back. The day begins at 1 p.m. with April Gibson & Wildfire, Vicki Talbott at 3 p.m., Tracy Maree & Robyn Lee at 3:30 p.m., Jade Lester at 4:30 p.m. Hear the Fiddlers Re-strung at 5 p.m., Cole Meredith at 6 p.m., Company of Strangers at 7 p.m. and headliner Sarah Lenore at 9 p.m.

SEE YOU IN BELLEVILLE!!!