South Fork prepares for 3rd of July fun
SOUTH FORK — Plans for the 3rd of July celebrations in South Fork are underway. Several years ago, the Town of South Fork opted to host its Independence Day celebrations on the 3rd of July to give residents and guests of the San Luis Valley a chance to enjoy celebrations two days in a row.
The day is always packed full of activities for the entire family and will begin with the annual South Fork Fire Rescue Catfish Fry and silent auction. All proceeds from the event go toward training and equipment for the department and serves as the only fundraising event throughout the year.
The auction starts at 10 a.m. and runs until 2 p.m. with lunch being served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the fire department building.
Members of the fire department cook and serve the lunch with the help of several volunteers. Hundreds of pounds of fish are breaded and fried and served with sides and drinks. The event sells out quickly. Current information is available on Facebook under South Fork Fire Rescue.
In addition to the annual Catfish Fry, the town will also be hosting their annual parade. This year’s theme is “30 years of small-town USA”. This year the town is wanting to honor South Fork’s small-town way of life and to celebrate 30 years since the town was incorporated in 1992. To register for the parade, contact Dustin Hund at the South Fork Visitor Center at 719-873-5512.
The day moves along with the annual Rockin’ the Rio Grande Rodeo at Rickle Arena beginning at 5:30 p.m. with the opening ceremony by the Fort Garland Color Guard. South Fork Kiwanis will be selling barbecue during the rodeo with all proceeds going to several projects including annual Christmas parties for area elementary schools and much more.
If weather and fire conditions permit, the annual South Fork Firework Show will begin at dark from the Rio Grande Club and Resort. The firework display can be seen from anywhere throughout town including the South Fork Visitor Center parking lot.