SAGUACHE — As part of the Sixth Annual Hollyhock Festival in Saguache on Saturday, July 29 there will be an “all things Hollyhock” using all mediums art contest and show. 
There are two divisions:  Adults and Youth (K-12).  The art items will be judged prior to display on Saturday July 29 at the Community Building, 525 7th Street in Saguache from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.  Winners will be announced July 29 at 2 p.m. with ribbons, recognition, and prizes awarded.
Artists interested in entering their Hollyhock creations are asked to bring their entries to the Saguache Town Hall at 504 San Juan Ave, Saguache from Monday thru Thursday July 17-July 20 during the hours of 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Town staff will gather the items for the Hollyhock Festival committee.  Artwork is to be picked up at the Community Building, July 29 after 2 p.m.  Contact  Caroline, 719-850-0051 with any questions or text inquires.
Hollyhocks, Alcea rosea, were one of the earliest plants brought to the new world.  Originally from Asia, the plant’s hardiness, drought tolerance, and soil adaptability supports its cultivation throughout the Middle East, Europe and North American continents. The hollyhock plants growing in the southwestern region are probably descendants of the first seeds planted when the area became settled.
The town of Saguache adopted the Hollyhock as the town flower in 2012 and since 2013 there have been self-guided tours of town gardens and yards. For 2017 the Hollyhock Festival will be held on July 29 with maps and Hollyhock seeds and plants available at the Community Building at Otto Mears Park located at 525 7th Street, Saguache. 
Other activities that day will include hands-on-activities, face-painting (yes, the entire family would enjoy this event), master gardeners clinic, bee-keeping display, and so much more. The Sixth Annual Saguache Hollyhock Festival on July 29 will be a great way to enjoy a Saturday among flowers and friends. Come visit and may everyone’s Hollyhocks grow straight, tall and be weed free.