This piece is presented by The Fruit Club.

The annual South Dakota Peach Festival expands to the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds this year.

It runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 17, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 18.

Along with buying Fruit Club peaches fresh from a Georgia farm, visitors can sample the world’s largest peach cobbler, enjoy live music, kids’ activities and even take a helicopter ride.

“We see the Peach Festival as an important way to give back to our community,” Fruit Club founder Irina Kleinsasser said. “Admission is free, and we’re proud to once again partner with Special Olympics South Dakota as our nonprofit beneficiary.”

Helicopter rides will be available from Minnesota-based Ride the Sky Helicopters. A four-to-five-mile ride will take guests around the fairgrounds area, and a 12-to-15-mile ride will go over Falls Park, St. Joseph Cathedral, downtown and The Empire Mall area.

“We thought this was a fun and unique addition to the festival,” Kleinsasser said. “The rides also will help benefit Special Olympics.”

Creative, talented bakers also have the chance to win prizes in the annual peach dessert contest. For the entry form, click here.

The Fruit Club is still looking for volunteers to help with the event. If you’re interested, email [email protected].