Milton Roundup returns Oct. 23.

By Jonathan Copsey; Appen Newspapers

Milton - The fourth annual Milton Roundup is just around the corner (this weekend, in fact), and organizers are expecting a record crowd, with plenty of new and exciting events to keep families entertained.

Milton Parks and Recreation Director Cyndee Bonacci says as many as 5,000 people may come out to this year's event, held at the Birmingham United Methodist Church, near the Birmingham Crossroads.

"This round up is going to be the largest to date," said Bonacci. "We have such a variety of events and vendors that it will appeal to all citizens."

As well as the traditional fair staples – bouncy castles and slides, local vendors with lots of food and games for the kids, like rock climbing, hay rides, moonwalks and the signature mechanical bull – there are a couple of new additions this year. Throughout the day, the non-profit Milton Public Safety Fund will hold its charity softball tournament, with all proceeds going to the Milton Police and Fire departments. The fair will also feature two stages with live music. But there's also something a little more interesting as well.

"We'll have helicopter rides for the first time," Bonacci said. "People will get a view of the North Fulton area and the Milton area that they haven't seen before."

The helicopter will fly passengers around on an eight-minute joy ride.The 2009 Roundup was a cold, wet affair held at Milton High School. The venue was changed back to the original location – the church – to get back the rural, country feel of the fair that was lost at the high school.

"The venue at the church is ideal for an event like this," said Bonacci. "It's very scenic."

"Come out for a great afternoon of family fun," said Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood. "I always look forward to this community event, and can't wait to see all my friends and neighbors enjoying themselves."

This year, the Roundup will take place at Birmingham United Methodist Church, located at 15770 Birmingham Highway. Admission and parking are free, although some vendors and rides may charge.

The first 250 people to bring two canned goods with them will get a free Roundup T-shirt. The cans will go to North Fulton Community Charities.The Roundup will take place Saturday, Oct. 23, from noon-6 p.m. For more information, visit www.cityofmiltonga.us.