Oxford may be the place where William Faulkner eventually settled and wrote some of his greatest work, but the author was born just up the road in New Albany. And this weekend, the Union County Heritage Museum is celebrating his birthday with a plethora of activities.

Tonight, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Museum will be opening a new exhibit titled “Faulkner and Folk Art” which features artwork inspired by his novel, “Light in August.” There will be a jury on hand to award the best pieces. The exhibit “promises surprises” according to Jill Smith, the Museum’s Director.

After the exhibition, the Tallahatchie River Players will showcase some of their favorite plays down at the Trailhead at 7 p.m.

The following day at 8:30 a.m., the Tallahatchie River Run, the annual 5K will begin in front of the BNA Bank. Local musician and one-man-band Vinnie Chenney will be on hand to entertain the crowd while they wait to see the race’s victors.

On Bankhead and Main Street, the event “Fire on the River” will be taking place at the Farmer’s Market on the Biscuits and Jam Stage at 10 a.m. till 3 p.m. Alabama Art Casting will be in the Market area with a cast iron metal pour and will also provide blacksmithing demonstrations. Visitors will also be able to design their own work

“This is a rare opportunity to see this type of metal work,” Smith said in a press release. “It’s open to the public and we hope people will want to come out and see this process, hear good music and enjoy a family event.”

In addition, The Humane Society will be on site with animals in need of adoption.

For further information about this weekend’s events, call the Museum at 662-538-0014.