The Delmarva Chicken Festival made it's comeback Saturday in Salisbury at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium, marking its return after a hiatus since 2014. This year's festival celebrated the 100th anniversary of chicken farming on the Delmarva Peninsula.
Organizers aimed to raise awareness about the rich history of chicken farming in the region, a vital part of the local economy. Delmarva Chicken Association Board President Zach Evans says it's impact spreads far and wide -
“The chicken industry is one of our largest, but it also bleeds over into so much of what we do – whether it’s agriculture, the contribution it makes to the economy, and the other industries it supports.” said Evans.
Evans added the importance of Chicken Farmers cannot go unrecognized -
“We’re gonna advocate on behalf of our hard working farmers. Remind you why it’s important to support the people that grow our food.”
The Salisbury Lions Club fried chicken in their massive frier - President Scott Wayne says all the chicken profit they do at the event would be reinvested into helping the community.
The festival also included a hot wing eating contest, a beauty pageant, and a virtual reality chicken farm tour. While the Delmarva Chicken Association hasn't confirmed a future return, the success of this year's event raises hopes for more festivals ahead.