The Midwest and Great Lakes areas have been some of the hardest hit by the economic decline. Many of us are staying home or take short weekend getaways rather than extended vacations. One way to stimulate our local economies while still getting a much needed break for ourselves is to attend hometown food festivals that occur throughout the year.

You know the ones. There is that cherry festival that you might skip because you can go next year or the harvest pumpkin celebration in the fall because you can handle only so much pumpkin pie. And we all know the side effects of hanging out at the chili cook-off.

These events aren't always all about the food however. Depending on the size of the event, there might be arts and crafts for sale, a parade, and activities for the kids. In fact, one of the largest Great Lakes area food events, Taste of Chicago, holds fireworks around Independence Day during the festival.

Alongside a craft vendor, you could see a face painter or a massage therapist giving seated mini massages. Just what you need for your aching neck, and just what they need for their wallet. I admit as a former massage therapist that was a bit of a plug, but during a downturn of the economy, those that provide so-called luxury services feel the effects of others tightening their belts very quickly. Artists and craftspeople at these events could be just trying to make a little pin money or it could be a large part if not all of their income.

You might even consider making some extra cash with your own arts, crafts and food. For tips on popular festival items, visit my article Ten Ways to Make Money at Fairs and Festivals.

Admission to these events is usually free but you have to buy food and drinks. Or you might pay a nominal fee to be able to sample many different foods. Sometimes taste tickets are available for a small charge and you hand each vendor a ticket in return for a sample. Maybe you've wanted to try that new restaurant in town or you thought it was too rich for your blood. Now is your chance to try something new without breaking the bank, and many of the vendors provide generous-sized samples. Not all the food served at these events is of the meat and potatoes variety.

To find local festivals contact the area chamber of commerce. Chances are that any shop owner in a downtown area will know when they take place as they are usually positioned right on Main Street, Anytown, USA. One helpful website is Food Reference.com at their Food Festival & Shows Section. An internet search using your state name with the words food festivals will prove productive as well as checking out foodie bloggers in your area. They love to give their opinions on local food and food fairs.

Besides taste fests which usually occur in towns large enough to support many restaurants, we come back full circle to your local cherry or blueberry festival (or strawberries, zucchinis, watermelon - you get the idea). While smaller events might not have fireworks, they need your support just as much if not more than the larger ones.

By attending hometown food festivals you win by getting a relatively inexpensive and fun weekend trip, and the festival participants win by being able to attract business. So tuck in to some homemade pie, but remember to take it easy with that chili.