Entering its fourth year, the Hamlin Wheel Fest is rolling along quite well, gaining a little more momentum each year. Coming off a year that brought in almost 10,000 festival goers, the event is being billed as even bigger and better.

This year's Wheel Fest, scheduled for June 2, will have more vendors, more games and even more time as the festival will now have an official kickoff the night before. Friday night everyone is invited to enjoy a fish fry at 6 p.m. and hang around as the DJ Pied Piper entertains the crowd from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Committee members have been working hard to put together a well-rounded Wheel Fest. Sherry Dobson, deputy town clerk, said she is proud of the festival's uniqueness.

"We hope that we can present something to Hamlin that everyone can enjoy without having to drive to other communities," said Dobson, adding that the festival is perfectly priced for families. "You can come in and enjoy this festival without spending money, or you can bring the kids, have some dinner and spend a little money."

There is no fee to come to the festival and many children's activities are offered free of charge. The festival is also easily accessible. Parking at the Fireman's Field includes shuttle busing, and handicapped parking is available at Hamlin Clarkson Town Line Plaza.

Hamlin Supervisor Austin Warner said he will be at the festival both days in his usual volunteer capacity as garbage man. Warner said he hopes to see a great turnout.

"I would just love to see people show up," said Warner. "Kathi Rickman and the festival committee have done a remarkable job. It really is a great community event."