Festival season is upon us in a big way. Last week, I met with Craig Crocker and the board of the Four Flags Area Apple Festival to discuss Leader Publications’ role in the big season closer at the end of September.

This is the 40th year of this festival. Leader Publications will publish this year’s official program.

As part of the festivities, we are trying to get in touch with as many of the former Miss Apple Festival Queens as possible to write about what they are doing now as well and their memories of their reigns.

As part of the fun we are planning coloring contests for the kids and also kicking around an “Apple Festivals of the Past” photo contest. Watch for these contests in the coming months. Leader Publications will be running the baked apple goods contest. We have plenty of volunteers to judge this year’s winners.

Speaking of contests, our Summer Fun Photo Contest is in full swing. With so many upcoming festivals and events coming up, you will have many opportunities to enter for your chance to win $500. Plus, you will become famous if we publish one of your photographs.

This weekend, some of the highlights include the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival at Weko Beach in Bridgman; Coloma has the annual BBQ & Blues Festival; and Fernwood has its garden party, all on Saturday.

Be sure to check out Off the Water each week for a full listing of events and festivals. We try to help out with “The Buzz” — our editor’s top picks on page 3 each week.

To view or submit photographs, go to www.leaderpub.com and click on the “Summer Fun” contest art.