You can buy these two items at the auction held later the same day. Not one, but two parades draw in the crowds. On Friday, there is a special parade just for the children. On Saturday, the Grand Parade is the main event of the day, lasting for several hours. Merchants hold big sales during the festival and participate in a window decorating contest in accordance with the current year's theme.
Residents can then take a stroll up and down the streets looking at the cleverly decorated windows.
The festival provides musical entertainment each evening, climaxing in the annual Drums at Appletime held at the Murphysboro High School football field. Marching units from throughout the region come to perform in drill and percussion. Everyone loves a beauty pageant, and you won't find a better one than the one which selects the new Miss Apple Festival. In addition to the queen, a prince and princess will also be chosen. Each May, the city of Murphysboro celebrates General John A. Logan Days.