GROVES — Groves Pecan Festival fans are in for a treat this year as organizers plan to bring more carnival rides, popular entertainment acts and a brand new Halloween costume contest.

Groves Chamber of Commerce members and city officials gathered for the annual kickoff breakfast at Magnolia Manor on Wednesday where chamber executive director Ronnie Boneau told of the upcoming four-day event, which will run from Oct 26 through Oct. 29 at Lion’s Park.

“After the festival last year, we heard from people who wanted more rides and bigger rides,” Boneau said.

Those rides are expected to arrive in town either Sunday or Monday with set-up to begin soon.

In addition, the Groves Pecan festival Committee is inviting folks to participate in the Halloween costume contest.

The contest will be held Oct. 26 and there are three categories — infants to 3-years, K4 to 12^th grade and 18 years and up.

Contest sign-up will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. that night at Lee Roger’s Pavilion at Lion’s Park and the contest will start at 8 p.m.

Musical entertainment this year will include Curse and the Cure and The Band Thick as Thieves among other acts.

Other events include the horseshoe contest; a photo contest and pet show and there will be a host of food and craft vendors.

For more information about the festival, call the chamber office at 962-3631.