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By JOYANNA LOVE | Managing Editor

A tasty tradition that has been on hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic is returning to the Peach Festival activities this year.

Senior Connection, 304 Park Plaza in Clanton, will host the 2022 Peach Festival Cook-off on June 22 at 5 p.m.

“We want to get it back bigger than ever,” Vanessa McKinney of Senior Connection said.

She said the group decided a few weeks ago to host the event, since the Chilton County Extension Office, who normally spearheaded the event, would be unable to this year.

“It has been going on so long,” and the organization wanted to continue it, McKinney said.

Entry forms are being accepted at Senior Connection until June 17 at 2 p.m.

Registration must be completed by then in order to participate.

Participates can enter a sweet or a savory dish featuring fresh, frozen or preserved peaches.

The contest is open to students ages 9 to 18 in the Youth Division and anyone 19 years old or older in the Adult Division. Entry fee is $25. The fee is being waived for Chilton County 4-H members.

McKinney said the competing cooks can find a sponsor for the fee, and the organization could assist with finding one if need be.

Cash prizes will be given for first, second and third place in each division.

Local judges will pick the winners.

After the judging, everyone in attendance will have a chance to taste the entries

Attending the event is free.

The event holds special memories for McKinney as she competed with her niece for multiple years in the past.

Recipes do not have to be original, but the recipes will be showcased in a booklet given to attendees. Any recipe that includes raw eggs will be disqualified.

“I enjoy all the different recipes everybody puts in,” McKinney said.

She said her favorites are the savory dishes.

J Q’s One Man Swing Band will provide entertainment during the event.