By GAGE WILSON
for Glasgow News 1
Bigfoot is returning to Park City this weekend for the second annual Bigfoot Festival, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 11, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Bell’s Tavern Park.
The event was launched last fall by City Commissioner Mike Burgess and drew over 1,000 visitors in its first year. With increased attention and interest from both locals and out-of-state attendees, Burgess said the city anticipates between three and four thousand people at this year’s festival.
The event will feature a variety of activities, including vendor booths offering cryptid-themed merchandise, handmade crafts, and Bigfoot-inspired art. Family-friendly attractions such as face painting, lawn games, and a “Kidz Corner” will also return.
Hayrides will be offered from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and food trucks will be available throughout the day.
This year’s lineup includes five speakers from the cryptozoology community:
- Aleksandar Petakov, a filmmaker known for the series “Bigfoot: Beyond the Trail,” will be joined by Dusty Ruth of the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization
- Television host and author Ronny LeBlanc
- Biomechanical analyst David “Taters” Wickham
- Researcher Ken Gerhard, who has appeared on “MonsterQuest” and “Ancient Aliens”
Each is expected to share firsthand accounts, research experiences, and insights into Bigfoot investigations. A roundtable discussion will follow the individual sessions, offering attendees an opportunity to ask questions.
VIP ticket holders will have access to additional events, including a nighttime hike on Friday, Oct. 10, and a dinner on Saturday evening.
Organizers recommend early arrival due to the expected turnout and suggest attendees bring cash, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
Bell’s Tavern Park is located at 130 Old Dixie Highway in Park City.
