By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–Helena’s largest festival of the year, Buck Creek Festival, is back for the 16^th year on May 12-13, and festival organizers have announced the Friday and Saturday night headliners, as well as other musical performers.

The annual festival has grown to become a two-day, family friendly event that exists to raise money for various organizations within the community, as well as to help fund a variety of projects.

Last year, the Buck Creek Festival raised $26,420 in total funds that was divided among multiple charities and organizations. Over the life of the festival, the total amount of money raised is $253,827. The money is placed back in the community for a variety of projects and organizations to benefit Helena.

The Friday night headliner will be John King, a country music recording artist and songwriter scheduled to perform at 8 p.m.

Opening for King on Friday night will be authentic 1980s rock/pop tribute band the M-80’s at 6 p.m.

The Saturday night headliner will be Nashville recording artist Morgan Wallen.

Wallen is currently touring with Florida Georgia Line and will be making his Alabama debut at the Buck Creek Festival. Wallen was also a season 6 contestant on “The Voice” before getting his own record deal. He is scheduled to go on stage at 9 p.m., Saturday night.

The rest of the band lineup for Saturday, May 13 is as follows:

–Keegan Bost: 10 a.m.

–Lamont Landers Band: 11 a.m.

–Helena High School Jazz Band: 12:15 p.m.

–Microwave Dave and the Nukes: 1:35 p.m.

­–Razz Ma Tazz: 4 p.m.

–The Sassy Brown Band: 5:30 p.m.

–Sweet Tea Trio: 7 p.m.

One of the main highlights of the Buck Creek Festival is the iconic duck race, which is scheduled to take place at 3 p.m. on May 13.

The Helena Band Boosters will once again be selling tickets to purchase ducks for the race.

The two-day festival is filled with a number of different vendors, sponsors, volunteers, musicians, performances and more that will be enjoyable for many families.

For more information or announcements for the Buck Creek Festival, visit Buckcreekfestival.com or Facebook.com/Buck-Creek-Festival-115700131841249/.