NEW BERLIN – New Berlin will host its 9th Annual Outdoor Quilt Show this Saturday. Admission is free and anyone attending can expect a variety of exciting activities, including 27 vendors, a 4-H petting zoo, a kid’s parade and of course the porch and yard quilt contest.

The event has come a long way in nine years, according to organizer Linda Foote. “We started organizing it in the basement of the library,” said Foote, who began the program with her “partner-in-crime” Carol Conroe. “It’s gotten a little too big for just two people.” The event is now run by the New Berlin Quilt Show Committee, of which Foote and Conroe are still members, and is sponsored by both the Village and Town of New Berlin as well as the New Berlin Art Forum and Country Cottage Arts.

“Advertising was the biggest problem,” said Foote. This year, however, the radio station WBKT 5 out of Oneonta will not only be promoting the event, but will also be on site during the festivities. According to Foote, there will be prizes offered periodically for people who listen to the radio station and follow scavenger hunt directions.

Prizes will of course also be given to those participating in the Porch and Lawn Decorating Contest. “Lynn Walton will be going door-to-door asking if people want to participate,” said Foote. Anyone may participate by decorating their houses with quilts of any size. There will be three prizes awarded – one judged by the mayor and two judged by viewer votes. “It’s very exciting,” said Foote.