News File Photo Pictured are luminarias in honor of cancer survivors or in memory of those who have passed because of cancer. Saturday’s luminaria ceremony will be held at 9 p.m. at the Alpena County Fairgrounds.

ALPENA — The Relay For Life of Northeast Michigan will host a walking event from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday at the Alpena County Fairgrounds. This year’s theme is “Wish Upon A Cure.”

The annual event will raise funds for the American Cancer Society. The day’s activities will include entertainment, food, themed laps, and family-friendly fun for 12 hours.

“The Relay will kick off with the survivor’s lap at 11 a.m.,” said Annie Hepburn, event lead for Relay For Life of Northeast Michigan. “And then, we are going to do another survivor’s lap at 5 p.m.”

The luminaria service will begin at 9 p.m., featuring decorated luminarias in honor and in memory of those who have battled cancer.

“All the funds raised are to help the American Cancer Society with research,” Hepburn said. “Without research, there will never be a cure, so we have to be mindful of that. Our goal this year is $45,000.”

She added that the event is fun, and that everyone is welcome to come walk a few laps, or just attend the event to watch.

“If you’ve never been to a Relay, you really need to come, because it’s inspiring,” Hepburn said.

For more information, visit relay.org/NEMI.

If you have questions, call Bonnie at 989-590-3843 or Kathy at 989-916-7051.

Darby Hinkley is Lifestyles editor. She can be reached at 989-358-5691 or dhinkley@thealpenanews.com.