Laurel's Jamfest to raise money for Christmas toys Saturday

(LAUREL, Ind.) – The Laurel community will come together to raise funds for kids' Christmas presents this weekend. 

The Long Branch Tavern will host the annual ‘Jamfest’ beginning at 6 p.m. on Saturday. 

It features live music, a hog roast, auctions and raffles. A $5 cover charge covers the hog roast dinner. 

“Musicians donate their time and talents so 100 percent of money raised will buy gifts for kids in our local communities,” said Long Branch owner Bev Keller. 

Proceeds from Jamfest allow secret shoppers like Krista Spurlock to buy presents that the kids truly want. 

“I have each child write down three things that they want and we try to get at least one of those presents on that list,” Spurlock said. “If they want a certain baby doll and I have to go to Indianapolis to find it, I will.” 

Organizers were able to purchase toys for more than 100 children in the community last year as a result of Jamfest. 

While this has been going on for many years, this is a bit more crucial this year due to the flooding that impacted many families in the area.

Keller added that while there is a $5 cover charge, it's common for residents to donate $20 or $50 at the door.

You can follow the Long Branch Tavern on Facebook by clicking here.