MISSOURI VALLEY, Iowa (AP) — Thousands of people are expected to gather at a farm in Iowa’s Loess Hills to celebrate a berry touted for its health benefits. The free North American Aronia Berry Festival will be held Saturday and Sunday at Sawmill Hollow Family Farm north of Missouri Valley.

The festival will include vendors, craftsmen and activities involving aronia berries, which are prized by some for their high levels of antioxidants. On Sunday, the Hy-Vee Healthy You Wellness Tour Bus will be at the festival to offer flu shots. More information is available at www.sawmillhollow.com.