By Christopher Johnson
Farwell’s long-running Lumberjack Festival returns this weekend, promising a packed celebration with something for everyone.
This has been a reoccurring festivity in our community for decades and promises to hit hard, fast and furiously. Clare County has been killing every event so far this year and the village of Farwell is clearly pulling its own items. Here’s a breakdown of what’s on the chopping block:
Friday
Much of the excitement kicks off at noon at Littlefield Park, with village-wide yard sales and food trucks expected all day and throughout the weekend, along with a craft show. Yard sale permit fees will be waived during the weekend festivities. To have your address added to the map, email Tonya Roe at tonya@villageoffarwell.org, or call the office at (989) 588-9926.
Around midday, weekenders can also enjoy the Farmers Market, Chainsaw Carving, a Big Buck Hunter Arcade Tournament, and many family-friendly activities such as Barrel Train rides, Inflatable axe throwing, and a haystack treasure hunt for the kiddos. In fact, from noon until 3 PM, Friday is considered Kids Day at the Festival, presented by the Clare Gladwin Parent Network.
The Great Lakes Timber Show will run throughout the day. This event brings the thrill of the forest to the public, starring skilled professional lumberjacks demonstrating talents rarely seen outside their rugged element. From chainsaw carving and axe throwing to two-man crosscut sawing and log rolling, the show delivers a high-energy lineup packed with crowd-pleasing action. This will also carry over into Saturday’s program, so be sure to catch on one or both days.
At 4PM the Surrey Township Library will announce this summer’s Photo Contest winner during an announcement in the park.
From 5-7 PM, there will be a spaghetti dinner at the Surrey Township Fire Department. Remember that all community meals ask for a donation.
Meanwhile, a Cornhole Tournament will begin at 6 PM for anybody who wants to participate. It’s $40 per team to play and requires registration in advance.
Hammerin’ Hank’s will be turning up the energy with live music throughout the day, creating the perfect backdrop for the event. Street-side sets are expected from local favorites Garabilly & Jen, Tamra Mackie, and Allie Piesche. To keep spirits high and the crowd refreshed, an outdoor bar will be serving up a variety of ice-cold beverages, including signature cocktails crafted just for the occasion.
Saturday
Much of the same fun from Friday will return for a second round, this time with start times kicking off as early as 8 AM. The day begins with a Pancake Breakfast served fresh in the pavilion—perfect fuel for anyone planning to take on the Lumberjack 5K, which will also be underway during this time. If you haven’t registered yet, there’s still time to lace up and join the action. Early risers will find plenty to enjoy from the previous day’s offerings, all thoughtfully timed around the festival’s other main event:
Hammerin’ Hank’s Second Annual Car & Bike Show
From 10AM to 3PM, the car show will be inviting collectors and car enthusiasts to show off their looks and chrome for some competitive adoration. But more than just a display of horsepower and polish, car shows like this celebrate craftsmanship, nostalgia, and the shared language of design across generations. Whether it’s a vintage muscle car, a sleek import, or a custom-built cruiser, each vehicle tells a story—so don’t miss a chance to tell yours. We want to hear it.
Anybody looking to enter their car or bike into the show should remember that registration starts at 8 AM. So be sure to show up early and prepared. Winners will be announced later in the afternoon at 3 PM, with trophies awarded.
The car show will also be entertaining the company of 98.5 UPS, who will be broadcasting LIVE from 10 AM until noon. So, you can tune into commentary vialocal radio as well.
Saturday (cont.)
While the car show is taking place, remember that there are Saturday exclusives also happening around town, including Day 2 of the Great Lakes Timber Show. The Farwell Area Historical Museum will be offering museum tours from 10 AM to 2 PM, and a Pie Eating Contest will be happening in the pavilion at 1 PM.
After dark, Hammerin’ Hank’s will be commencing its Coyote Ugly afterparty from 9 PM to 2 AM, with DJ Branson Wolfgang set to spin. This will serve as the definitive sendoff for the Lumberjack Festival and according to Hank’s, “leather, fringe, & attitude” are encouraged.
As always, drink safely and responsibly, and let’s all have a great time.
