Independence Day will come early at Roan Mountain State Park with a day full of activities designed for good “old-fashioned” fun.
The Park will host its Independence Day celebration this Saturday, June 28, beginning at 9 a.m. and running throughout the day.
“We do traditional field day activities,” said Park Ranger Meg Guy, adding that a variety of activities are planned so everyone can find something fun to do.
The event kicks off with a bicycle decorating contest at 9 a.m., with a prize for the best-decorated bicycle. After the contest, Guy said the Campground Bike Parade will roll out at 9:30 a.m. Helmets are required for the bike parade. Both bicycle events will begin at Shelter 3 of the Campground Pavilion, across from the campground check-in station.
Sack races will be held at 10 a.m., followed by a water balloon toss at 10:30 a.m. and then a sponge relay at 11 a.m. All of those events will be held in the campground playing field.
At noon, a hot dog roast will be held at Shelter 3. Also at noon will be live music sessions by John Bland.
At 1 p.m. a watermelon eating contest will be held at the campground playing field with a prize awarded to the best eater.
A checkers tournament and egg relay will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the campground playing field. Contestants must sign up ahead of time at the campground check-in station and must be present for the entire tournament to be eligible to win.
Guy said a Tug of War will be held at 2 p.m. at the playing field and participants should be prepared to get dirty as a mud pit for the tournament has been built.
A dodge ball game will be held at 2:30 p.m. followed by ultimate frisbee at 3:30 p.m. with both events taking place at the playing field.
“That evening we will have our regularly scheduled music entertainment,” Guy said.
The Brotherhood Quartet will present a concert at the park amphitheater at 7 p.m. In case of rain, the music will be moved to the campground pavilion.
At 9 p.m. there will be a campground campfire with jokes, riddles, stories, charades and s’mores at the campground area fire ring, just behind the Tom Gray Trailhead. Don’t forget to bring your flashlight to this event.
These events and programs are free of charge.