It’s not too early to mark your calendars, folks. The Hank Williams Sr. Festival, held in the county from which the country music legend hailed, is returning to the Hank Williams Park in downtown Georgiana in June.

There are some changes at this year’s event, which is celebrating 30 years in south Butler County.

“Due to the Bama Jam also being scheduled the first weekend in June, when we have traditionally held the Hank festival, we are moving the festivities to June 12 and 13, with free karaoke on Thursday, along with our usual fan club activities,” said Mary Wallace, president of the Hank Williams Sr. International Fan Club.

“We hope to give a good turnout of not only out-of-town fans but also our own folks supporting the event as we celebrate our 30th anniversary this year.”

Another change to this year’s event: instead of a single headliner taking stage Saturday night, a “Honky Tonk Tailgate Party” is planned with a host of performers, many familiar to festival goers.

Scheduled to appear on Saturday night are Mark Wells, Jeff Bates and Trent Willmon, Jett Williams, Ronnie McDowell, Brad Magness and The Flying Buffaloes, David Church, Mary McDonald, Colin Leatherwood and Butler County’s own, Starla Jones.

Former members of Hank’s band, “The Drifting Cowboys,” will also be on hand to meet fans and sign autographs.

Friday’s lineup includes The Springs, Joe Wright Band, Colin Leatherwood, Mary McDonald, Brad Magness and his band and Ronnie McDowell.

Gates will open at 3 p.m. Friday and at 8 a.m. on Saturday.

Arts and crafts, festival foods, beverages and opportunities to visit sites, such as the Hank Williams Sr. Boyhood Home and Museum, the Hank Williams Fan Club House, and the Ga-Ana Theatre, where a young Hank performed with his band, are all part of the weekend.

Something that hasn’t changed is the ticket prices. Advance weekend tickets are available through June 11 for $30. Friday tickets are $15 and Saturday tickets are $25 when purchased separately.

The Three Arts Club of Georgiana and Chapman will once again be selling ads in the official program to raise funds for student scholarships and charitable endeavors in the county.

For more information, or to order tickets, call 334-376-2396, fax 334-376-9850 or email to cityofgeorgiana@centurytel.net.