By Eve Copeland

eve.copeland@gaflnews.com

TIFTON — The 2018 Omega Pepper Festival took place at Ponder Park in Omega on Sept. 7 and 8.

Opening ceremonies kicked off at 6 p.m. on Friday. Bill Johnson raised the colors, Kayla Robinson sang the national anthem and the opening prayer was led by the Rev. Dudley Cook from Bethel Baptist Church.

Friday night saw a gospel sing from 6 to 10 p.m., featuring Happy Times Revival, Becky Hill, The Davis’ and an open mic hour.

The 15th annual Omega Pepper Parade began at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.

The park was full of vendors, a Pepperpaloosa Kiddie Park, music and live entertainment.

Some of the entertainment included Wild Life Wonders and Southeastern Wildlife Encounters, which allowed attendees to see and learn about animals such as porcupines, snakes and primates.

Other entertainment included the Last Chance Band, Chris Overman, Austin Neal, NAJ Band and the Danny Dawson Band.