By Mary Kathryn Carpenter

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Wake up early to participate in a 5k run, head over to Natchez Coffee Company with the kids for a scavenger hunt or enjoy browsing several art galleries showing off local talent.

Thunderstorms may make for a humid weekend with temperatures in the low 90s.

Alcorn State University Extension Program Health Fair and 5k Run

The Alcorn State University Extension Program will host a Health Fair and 5k/Run Saturday morning featuring local vendors promoting a healthy lifestyle.

“We would just like everyone to come out and have a good time,” said Extension Service program field coordinator Joshua Coleman.

The event will be hosted along the Natchez Bluff near the gazebo.

Registration for the run begins at 7 a.m. with the run beginning at 8 a.m.

The Health Fair begins at 8 a.m. and will last until 11 a.m.

There is no registration fee, but you must be registered to run.

Second Saturday

Second Saturday activities include entertainment for all ages.

A scavenger hunt will begin at Natchez Coffee Company at 10 a.m. and last until 1 p.m. and is open to children ages 3 through 12.

The scavenger hunt will carry a patriotic theme in which children will look for images of states in participating downtown business.

After completing the scavenger hunt and receiving a jigsaw puzzle as a reward, the children can have their faces painted back at Natchez Coffee Company.

“We wanted to put an educational spin on the scavenger hunt,” said downtown development coordinator Yvonne Murray. “We wanted to help teach kids which states were the original colonies and which ones later joined the Union, and still make learning fun.”

That evening, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. adults can enjoy refreshments while visiting various art galleries around downtown showcasing local art.

“The art walk is really fun,” Murray said. “I encourage people who have never done it to go see all of the art and talent that is here in Natchez.”