Photo/MANDI HARGRAVE PREPARATIONS FOR the Heritage Festival, as part of the Dufferin 125 celebrations were underway Wednesday morning at the Orangeville Agricultural Fairgrounds. Here Zevan Parr, a summer student with the Dufferin County Museum and Archives, helps set up the quilt exhibit. This weekend marks the pinnacle celebration, with events being hosted at the Orangeville Agricultural Centre, in a yearlong event saluting 125 years of Dufferin County's existence.

A homecoming dance at the fairgrounds on Mono's 5 Sideroad Friday evening kicks off the festivities, featuring Bill Beattie and his band.

On Saturday beginning at 11 a.m., the Royal Ontario Museum opens a traveling exhibit in the community room of the agriculture centre called "Canada at Play", a look at the history of sport and toys. Continuing with static displays quilts and art pieces depicting the county's history can also be enjoyed.

Outside, beginning at 11 a.m., you can wander amongst classic cars, featuring all makes and models, or visit the Reduce the Juice trailer and find some innovative ways to conserve energy. Also outside, a falconry demonstrations, a horsepull and a kid's activity area.

And don't miss the OPP Golden Helmets Team at 2 p.m. as well as other police demonstrations.

On Sunday a military parade, lead by Major General Richard Rohmer will begin at 1 p.m. with a drumhead church service (the traditional form of a religious service attended by troops in the field) at 2 p.m. and the static displays will be open. More demonstrations and activities are planned for the day including the RCMP bomb disposal team and the OPP emergency response team helicopter being on display.

The festival wraps up on Monday at around 4 p.m with the displays and entertainment continuing until then.

The County of Dufferin 125 anniversary is a yearlong celebration, but this weekend is jammedpacked, with something for everyone.

For a complete listing of events visit the website www.dufferincounty.on.ca