Fans of the cult-classic Dirty Dancing will not want to miss the inaugural Dirty Dancing Festival September 17–18 in the film’s original, breathtaking backdrop of Lake Lure. Hosted by the Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce, the dance- packed weekend features a variety of activities.

There will be a free lakeside screening of the movie on Friday September 17 at 6 p.m. The Dirty Dancing Festival on Saturday from 10–4 p.m. features Maurice Williams & the Zodiacs performing their hit from the movie, Stay. The festival also includes dance performances by the A-Lure Dirty Dancing Review Dancers, Dirty Dancing storytellers, family-friendly games, dance lessons, and a dance competition.

Time of Your Life Gala, Saturday evening at 6 p.m., will be at Firefly Cove where most of the movie was filmed. The 1960s-inspired event features surprise dance performances, a silent auction of movie memorabilia, a live 1950s/1960s band, and a professional and amateur shag competition.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children (6 to 17). Tick- ets for Time of Your Life Gala are $50 per person. A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Isothermal Foundation Performing Arts Center, Hospice of Rutherford County, and the Lake Lure Youth Center.

For more information, visit dirtydancingfestival.com or call the Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce at 877.625.2725.