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Sponsored by the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce, the fun events debut Friday afternoon with the opening of the Sportsmen's Festival, held again at the St. Charles Community Park on M-52, across from the Alley Bar and Grill.

The event runs 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday, noon to 1 a.m. on Saturday and from noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

Kids can get a thrill a minute thanks to a carnival midway provided by McDonagh Amusements. Adult festival-goers are invited to cool off in the beer tent, which will feature live music by Spike Henry on Friday and Saturday evenings.

The fun doesn't stop there. The St. Charles Lions Club will sponsor bingo on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, while a Men's Slo-Pitch Softball Tournament runs all three days as well.

Back this year is the Texas Hold 'Em Tournament, which starts at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Last year's card game was a hit for experts and amateurs alike, and organizers are hoping for more friendly competition this year.

Saturday marks the return of the 13th Annual Golden Oldies Car Show, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the park.

Vehicle owners can register their entries from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with voting and judging completed by 2:30 p.m. A 4 p.m. awards ceremony will give honors for Best of Show, Best Paint, Best Engine, People's Choice and Wildest Toy.

The top 30 winners will chosen through a combined vote of the top 15 entrants' votes and top 15 judges' choices. Motorcycles are welcome.

The entry fee is $10 per vehicle, with the first 50 registrations receiving a dash plaque. Checks may be made payable to the St. Charles Area Chamber of Commerce.

For more information about the Golden Oldies Car Show, call Karen at (989) 865-8030.

Also on tap for Saturday is the Tri-Township Fire Department's pancake breakfast and Jaws of Life demonstration. Fire department personnel will also have the educational smoke house set up for those who wish to learn more about fire safety and hazards.

After a great first year, Chamber organizers are bringing back the bike rally on Sunday. Cycles will depart from the park in the morning and return to the park in the afternoon after their road tour.

Great food is always a key part of the Sportsmen's Festival atmosphere, and this year is no exception. The American Legion will grill up a tasty chicken barbecue from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Other refreshments will be available, and there are several downtown restaurants for those who want to sit down and enjoy a meal.

Visitors to the friendly community will be able to enjoy the always colorful landscaping provided through last month's village-wide Beautification Day. Other hot attractions for the whole family include the Saginaw Valley Rail Trail and the St. Charles Community Pool, which opens June 8.

For more information about the Sportsmen's Festival or the bike run, contact St. Charles Chamber of Commerce President Steve Harris at (989) 865-9041.