The Graw Days Festival on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Havre de Grace, represents a colorful time in Havre de Grace’s history beginning in 1912 with the construction of the Havre de Grace Race Track, affectionately called “The Graw.”

The award-winning festival drew thousands last year, and sponsor Havre de Grace Main Street Inc. says it expects to double that success this year.

The festival features more than 80 vendors, including a wide variety of artisans and crafters, and an array of delicious foods. There will be exhibits from the Maryland Jockey Club, Maryland Horse Breeders Association, Susquehanna Mounted Patrol, Fairwinds Farm and Freedom Hills.

There will be a Wheeled Horse Contest and Parade at 2 p.m., sponsored by Biller’s Bikes (preregistration is required). There will also be free pony rides, face painting, games and crafts and carriage rides.

Entertainment, provided throughout the entirety of the event, will include music all day by C. Milton Wright High School (“The Sound of Music”), Peabody Ragtime Ensemble, Swannee River Ragtime Band, Bay Country Gentlemen and MoJo Daddies.

Also featured will be a number of historic speakers:

10:30 a.m.: Mitch Shank, historical street signs

11:30 a.m.: Ryan Kelly, Maryland Jockey Club historian

12:30 p.m.: Author David Pietrusza, author of “Rothstein,” which focuses on local race track history

1:30 p.m.: David Craig, Havre de Grace Race Track history

2:30 p.m. Dr. Ken Unruh, history of Havre De Grace

3:00 p.m. Author David Pietrusza/Rothstein

3:30 p.m. Donna Miller, Havre de Grace Tales of Ghosts

After the festival, continue the fun in the Graw spirit at the old Racing Club (National Guard headquarters) on Old Bay Lane for the 2nd Annual Graw Gala. Tickets are $50 each, catered by Coakley’s Pub, Swingin’ Swamies performing, numerous silent auction items and cash bar. Black tie or 1920s dress is preferred.

Graw Days organizers are also looking for photos and memorabilia. Call 410-939-1811.

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