The Hanover Tomato Festival returns to Pole Green Park on July 12 and 13, marking its 46th year as a community celebration. The event, which began as a fundraiser for the Black Creek Volunteer Fire Department, now spans two days and features over 100 vendors offering handcrafted items, agricultural products and food.

Friday’s festivities run from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with Saturday’s hours from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Deloreans, an ’80s tribute band, will perform Friday evening. Beer and wine sales will benefit the Hanover CREW Foundation, which provides aid for emergency responders and their families in times of need (CREW stands for Crisis Relief for Emergency Workers).

Saturday’s schedule includes  tomato-eating contests and a performance by Ron Moody and the Centaurs.

Visitors can sample various tomato-themed dishes and browse locally made crafts. Family friendly activities include games, a rock-climbing wall and inflatables. The free, pet friendly festival will provide cooling stations and shaded areas.

For more information, visit hanovertomatofestival.com.