LANCASTER, Mass. (WWLP) - Ricky Duran, the Season 17 runner-up of NBC’s "The Voice," will headline this year's Pet Rock Festival on Sunday, October 6, at the Lancaster Fairgrounds. Old Sturbridge Village opens ‘Phantoms by Firelight’ Halloween event on October 4 The popular New England animal welfare event, now in its 26th year, runs from noon to 5 p.m. and also features musical acts such as the Office Party Band, Petty Larceny, and Vivi and DaFUNK. Courtesy of Pet Rock Fest Inc.Courtesy of Pet Rock Fest Inc.Courtesy of Pet Rock Fest Inc. Duran, a Worcester native and Berklee College of Music graduate has gained national acclaim for his soulful vocals and electrifying performances. His album Space & Time charted at No. 1 on iTunes. A passionate animal lover, Duran said he’s excited to support Pet Rock Fest’s mission to end animal cruelty. The festival will host an array of activities including dog demos, a pet parade, a vegan food court, kids' activities, pet photo contests, and animal-friendly vendors. Proceeds will benefit numerous animal welfare charities across New England. Tickets can be purchased at the gate. For more information, visit petrockfest.org. Local News Headlines What to expect for October weather in Massachusetts Massachusetts lawmakers demand answers on price-gouging study between Stop & Shop locations Cedar Street in Sturbridge closed due to water main break Magic for Maddie 5K and Carnival fundraiser in Holyoke for brain cancer research WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.