The 47th annual Hanover Tomato Festival returns Friday and Saturday, July 11 and 12, at Pole Green Park in Mechanicsville. This free, family-friendly event celebrates Hanover’s signature juicy tomatoes with live entertainment on two stages, nearly 100 vendors, and a variety of children’s activities, all centered around the beloved tomato.

Festival hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Friday night’s main stage will feature The Deloreans, an energetic ’80s tribute band,

performing at 5:45 and 7:30 p.m. Cold drinks will be available at the beer tent, with proceeds benefiting the Hanover CREW (Crisis Relief for Emergency Workers) Foundation. On the children’s stage, storytime with Pamunkey Regional Library begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by Jonathan the Juggler at 6 p.m., Tampa Taiko Japanese Drums at 7 p.m. and a Silent Disco Party at 8 p.m. Saturday’s main stage will host live country music with DanJo (Danny Kensy and Barefoot Joe) at 10 and 11:30 a.m., with tomato- themed contests starting at 11 a.m. On the children’s stage, storytime with Pamunkey Regional Library begins at 9:30 a.m., Tampa Taiko Japanese Drums perform at 10 a.m., followed by Mr. B’s Magic Show at 11 a.m. and Music4Everyone at noon.

Both days will offer games, face painting, inflatable soccer, photo booths and chances to win prizes. Tomato lovers can sample unique dishes such as tomato and basil cupcakes, creamy feta and tomato chicken, BLT hot dogs and chicken salad stuffed tomatoes.

Traditional festival fare will include lobster rolls, funnel cakes, kettle corn, lemonade and ice cream. Local agricultural vendors will offer fresh produce, honey, teas, desserts and even treats for pets. Artisans will showcase handcrafted goods ranging from jewelry and candles to dog toys and leatherwork.

The festival is pet-friendly, with leashes required, and cooling stations will be available. Admission and parking are free.