Some people won’t believe it when you tell them white squirrels exist. We weren’t so sure ourselves until we saw our first one. A relative of the gray Eastern tree squirrel, white squirrels are thriving in Brevard, NC accounting for an all-time high of 40% of the Eastern tree squirrel population. This particular species of squirrel made its way to Brevard in 1949 as a result of a carnival wreck in central Florida and the town is gearing up for their 10th annual celebration of this unique wildlife population.

This nutty Memorial Day Weekend festival has a little bit for everyone. New for 2013, the festival kicks-off Friday night with a free concert by Jupiter Coyote and Special Guest, and that’s just the first of many free live music performances. Additional confirmed artists for 2013 include Acoustic Syndicate and many more.

The family fun continues with a Memorial Day Parade organized by the American Legion and VFW Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m., followed by a “Presentation of the Wreath” at the county courthouse War Memorial.

Thrill-seekers will enjoy the 7th Annual Squirrel Box Derby where creatively-designed derby karts race down Jailhouse Hill clocking in at 35mph or more. Races are open to kids 8-11 and 12-17, adults and businesses. Contestants compete for trophies awarded for the fastest critter and nuttiest design and the Golden Nut which is awarded to the local business with the best overall speed and design.

For those who are still skeptics, attendees will have a chance to meet “Pisgah Pete,” a rescued white squirrel, who will make his annual appearance at the festival. In addition, festival goers can learn more about how white squirrels live and what we can do to help rehabilitate wounded or rescued squirrels.

Additional events include the 6th Annual White Squirrel 5K/10K foot race, the White Squirrel Photo Contest, the White Squirrel Dance-off and street festival. This Memorial Day Weekend, there will be plenty of nutty fun for everyone in Brevard. Are you ready to “go nuts”?

More information can be found by calling the festival organizer, Heart of Brevard at 828-884-3278.