Clinton's annual May Days festival kicks off this Thursday.

May Days is an annual fundraiser for the Clinton Chamber. Anyone interested in still purchasing tickets for the four day festival can still get those noon today. Executive Director of the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce, Marian Brisard explains those tickets can be purchased at a discounted price and that is where the Chamber is able to raise money.

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Opening ceremonies will be held by the Clinton Chamber of Commerce Thursday and then a new event the Chamber is hosting will be held. Carolyn Sugg, with the Chamber of Commerce explains they will have their first May Days Pageant this Friday evening. There are four categories starting in kindergarten up to college students. Scholarships will be given out to the winners courtesy of various businesses in the community.

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Friday evening events this year include the introduction of the food and craft vendors, and Brisard says they will show a movie on the square courtesy of Sound and Light Creations. The movie being shown will be "The Smurfs". Youngsters will be able to show off their hula-hoop skills Friday night and the carnival will open back up for the evening as well.

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Parts of the downtown Clinton Square has been blocked off since Tuesday, and Brisard notes, this weekend, more streets will be blocked off as well for the activities and expected increase in guests.

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To get those tickets in advance while there is still time, you can stop by the Chamber of Commerce at 100 South Center, Suite 101 on the downtown Clinton Square or you can contact them at 935-3364.