One of the biggest days of the year for our area is coming up this Saturday.

Riverfront Market Day and the Alabama Tale Tellin’ Festival are opportunities for Selma to shine.

This is a time to put our best foot forward, embrace visitors and show support for our local arts community, including our own Kathryn Tucker Windham, an internationally-known storyteller who highlights the festival.

Residents should come out in droves to the Pickard Auditorium Friday and Saturday nights for the Tale Tellin’ Festival.

During the day on Saturday, Water Avenue is the place to be, with vendors lined up down the riverfront.

This year’s 37th annual event is a “can’t miss,” said Ed Greene, chairman of Riverfront Market.

This year, organizers added a little twist, with ArtsRevive providing booth space and luring artists from throughout the region to showcase their talents.

Downtown museums and businesses also benefit from the influx of visitors to the area for the events.

The festival starts and gates open at 9 a.m. and admission is free for children age 12 and under. The main gate will be at Board Street and Water Avenue. Admission for adults is $2 and $1 for children older than 12.

Tickets for the Tale Tellin’ Festival are sold separately starting at $5 for children 12 and under; $10 for adults.

So, turn off the cell phone, get out of the house and show your support for Selma and its arts community.