SOUTH FORK— It’s that time of year again as South Fork gears up for their annual 3rd of July celebrations and prepare to rock the town with fun, family-friendly activities. This year, the town in partnership with the chamber will be incorporating the 25th anniversary celebrations into the event and showcasing community pride in the parade with randomly tossed silver plated 25th anniversary coins for the attending crowd. Several floats will be handing off coins to lucky parade-goers as a way to memorialize the town’s accomplishments since its incorporation in 1992.
The South Fork parade starts at 3 p.m. and is kicked off with the Fort Garland Mounted Color Guard, followed by numerous floats, rodeo clowns, cowboys, ATV groups and classic cars. The Fort Garland Mounted Color Guard embodies the army tradition of mounted Soldiers and their steeds who honor the service horses have provided the nation throughout history. Horses have had a long, distinguished history with the Army. The color guard will be performing with their team of horses and wagon at the South Fork Rodeo later in the evening at 6:30 p.m.
After the parade, head on over to the South Fork Fire department for their annual fish fry. The event is part of their annual fundraising event, all proceeds aid in the purchase of new equipment and general operations of the department. The crew prepare the meal themselves and it is always sure to be a filling time! The department is located behind the Carnegie Library off of Highway 160.
A farmers market will be set up near the visitor center where guests can come and partake in local food, produce and crafts from local vendors. The market is a great way to walk off the meal from the fire department and prepare for the afternoon activities yet to come.
This is followed by some free time to check out the local shops and their Independence Day specials. Use the afternoon to kick back and enjoy the area. Take the family fishing, shopping or for a hike in the woods. After the afternoon begins to fade into early evening, head on over to the Kiwanis Brisket Dinner from 4 to 7 p.m., with music by the Merry Makers.
The rodeo begins at 7 p.m. and is put on by local company, Burris & Sons stock and rodeo producers. The event will be full of thrills that will include bull riding, mutton busting and more. The rodeo is one of two the company will host in South Fork this year. Burris and Sons is well known for their energetic and charismatic way of entertaining the local crowds. The show is nonstop fun for those who wish to attend.
After the fun at the rodeo grounds, guests can head back over to the visitor center to get the perfect spot for when dark arrives. A fireworks display will take place just after dark to celebrate 25 years of South fork fun and independence. Be sure to come out and join in the fun!