SWANSBORO, N.C. — What originally began as a celebration of a new bridge is now in its 59th year as one of eastern North Carolina's top festivals recognizing a favorite seafood dish.

The Daily News of Jacksonville reports (http://bit.ly/1fqDfP1 ) the annual Mullet Fest is scheduled for Saturday near the White Oak River.

The Jacksonville Rotary Club will cook this year's meal, continuing the tradition that goes back to when the bridge over the White Oak was built near downtown nearly 60 years ago. The bridge was finished in October, at the height of mullet season, and the festival was launched.

More than 100 organizations and businesses will be represented at the festival. Lady Swan Boat Tours will provide tours at the town dock, and at least six bands are scheduled to play.