Every year, thousands flock to downtown Apex for Peakfest, the town’s annual celebration of “the peak of good living.” And though the fun is undeniable, the festival also helps the community in a serious way.

The largest public event in town, the 39th annual festival is set for 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday, May 4, in downtown Apex.

Festival-goers will find arts and crafts, family-friendly entertainment, a tempting array of fair food, and live music including The Embers among others. Student dancers and musicians will also perform.

But many attendees don’t realize that for more than a decade, the Apex Festival Commission has given away more than $300,000 in grants to community applicants.

Past beneficiaries include the Apex Historical Society, Apex Police Youth Enrichment Camp, Kraft YMCA, Peak Labs Rescue and Western Wake Crisis Ministry.

In addition to local organizations, the commission supports community initiatives such as the Rogers Family Skate Park and the Apex Service Memorial that honors military service members, first responders and commemorates 9/11.

For more information on the festival and the PeakFest community grants, visit apexpeakfest.com.