Poplarville is preparing for a deluge of blueberry lovers from all across the region, for the 31^st Annual Blueberry Jubilee.

Longtime organizer and Poplarville Alderwoman Shirley Wiltshire said the event is expecting large crowds and will feature many local vendors and artists.

“The town is ready to welcome visitors coming to experience our Jubilee, we are expecting record crowds for the Jubilee and the car show,” Wiltshire said.

Wiltshire said that preparation for the event is going smoothly. She said food vendor slots are full and the number of local food vendors has increased from last year.

She also said the committee is receiving calls daily for last minute arts and crafts admissions.

Committee member, Tammy Krutzefeldt contacted Mississippi Public Broadcasting and a crew will arrive on Saturday to film a segment for the Mississippi Road Show, Wiltshire said.

“The exciting thing about this is lots of local people from throughout the county are showcasing their talents here,” Wiltshire said. “This will give them exposure to people outside the county.”

In addition to arts, crafts, local cuisine and performances, the recently purchased Poplarville Fire Department ladder truck will be displayed for the event.

Wiltshire said the new ladder truck will be displayed on Main Street, across from the post office and courthouse and will feature a way for kids to cool off.

The idea was conceived in 1983 butthe first Jubilee was not held until 1989. Wiltshire said she began working with the event in 1989 and there are currently only two other people who have been on the committee longer.

Poplarville Mayor Brad Necaise said, “We are looking forward to another successful Jubilee welcoming thousands of visitors to Poplarville and showing them our beautiful city and southern hospitality.”