The Roan Mountain AT Community is inviting the public to join the community in several chances to celebrate the Appalachian Trail on May 5.

“Members of this community are quite energized by last year’s designation of Roan Mountain as the 41st Appalachian Trail Community,” said Appalachian Trail Community Ambassador Jim Chambers. “Locals are very enthusiastic and appreciative of having such an asset in their backyards.”

Chambers has organized the inaugural Roan Mountain Hard Core event to engage thru hikers in joining a work crew for the day. AT thru-hikers, regular Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club trail maintainers as well as locals will perform trail rehabilitation and erosion control just south of Carvers Gap, and just north of the peak of Roan Mountain.

“We will work hard and have fun giving back to the Appalachian Trail,” Chambers said. “We will have a spaghetti dinner and awards ceremony after the work day. Participants will receive a free T-shirt as well.”

There are also two celebrations taking place on May 5. Roan Mountain Community Park will host an event similar to last year’s designation ceremony and a new Roan Mountain business will host an after party. There will be fun outdoor activities, live music, and opportunities to learn about the Appalachian Trail.

The festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Roan Mountain Town Park.

The after party featuring live music from Hawk Baby will be held at The Station at 19E beginning at 7 p.m.

Accommodations are available at several Roan Mountain hostels, cabins and bed and breakfasts. Overnight camping will also be allowed on the Roan Mountain Community Park.

For more details, follow Roan Mountain AT Community on Facebook.