Each year, on the first Friday in August, the Columbus United Methodist Church holds a Peach Festival. This year is no exception. Everyone is welcome on Friday, August 4 from 4:30-7 p.m. to partake in a BBQ supper (prepared by Harry Denton) and indulge in a wide variety of peach desserts.

To prepare you for these delectable treats, here are some interesting facts about our local nectar. Freestone peaches are those whose flesh separates readily from the pit. Clingstone peaches are those whose flesh clings tightly to the pit. Some peaches are partially freestone and clingstone, so are called semi-free. Freestone types are preferred for eating fresh, while clingstone types are for canning. The fruit flesh may be creamy white to deep yellow.

South Carolina grows the most peaches in the United States next to California. Biting into a fresh, juicy Carolina peach is a rarer experience this summer because of the early bloom this February followed by sudden freezing temperatures. South Carolina lost 90 percent of its crop. But, the Columbus United Methodist Women are scouring the orchards to find the best peaches around. 

Proceeds from the Peach Festival go to support the Columbus United Methodist Womens’ missions, which include Thermal Belt Outreach, Steps to Hope and Hospice among others. So, not only can you have a wonderful meal and delicious desserts, you can help others in your community.

For further information, contact Peggy McCallister, UMW President, at 828-899-1200.

– article submitted by Cynthia Terwilliger