Summer Fun: Homecoming BBQ

Every year for many decades my tiny hometown has held a large barbecue homecoming event on the second Sunday of July. Almost every year since I was a toddler I've attended. It is held in our big, beautiful park and people come from miles around to indulge in slow smoked deep pit bbq beef, shredded and cooked to perfection. 

The meal also includes salad, beans and a bread roll, and other goodies are available at various concession booths. I used to help fundraise for summer camp by selling drinks and snow cones many a summer, and it was nice to see the current generation of youth doing the same. I also always stop by the baked goods tables benefiting the local Women's Club and get my customary blackberry tart, made with local, hand picked blackberries and topped with a generous dollup of whipped cream. This year I also picked up one of the fluffiest, richest brownies I've ever had, yum!

There are also a handful of charming craft booths. This year I spied booths with jewelry, tie dyed clothing, toys, wooden decor, and of course my favorite booth is my parents. My dad sells hand stamped metalwork items, such as pet tags, key chains, military dog tags, license plate frames and plaques. 

Another crowd pleaser is the classic car show. Dozens of cars are on display, all the way from vintage models of the early 1900's to sleek sports cars of more recent decades. It's always fun to walk around and look at them; some people really go all out with their paint jobs and accessories.

It was a very warm day but I was able to stay cool enough with the aid of a nice breeze, abundant shade trees, and my new cute and comfy Lularoe outfit! This is the Irma style top, but I was able to wear it for hot weather by tying the 3/4 length sleeves into a draped halter, and it paired perfectly with my Azure skirt.

It was great fun visiting with my family and also old friends I hadn't seen in years. It's a wonderful event that really brings the whole community together and a tradition I always look forward to.

Do you have any local events that you make a habit of attending? What are your favorite summer activities?