HUNTLEY- Homesteader Days in Huntley is a long-standing tradition and fundraiser. This year's event kicks off with the traditional concert and parade, with a few tweaks.
The theme of Huntley's 2020 parade is "Proud to be an American-Stronger Together."
"So we’re the Huntley Project Lions Club and we’re hosting the 56th Annual Homesteader Days Celebration this weekend,Friday July 10 and Saturday, July 11," Homesteader Days event Event Director Bethany Hein said.
Homesteader Days started in 1954.
"Back then it was a whole bunch of farmers and ranchers in the area literally got together for a two-day event and sat down and ate and drank a lot of beer," Hein said.
"Really, it was about those folks getting together and talking about what was going on on the farm or going on on the ranch, and it just kind of grew from there," Huntley Project Lions Club President Steve Rockhold said.
After much consideration, consultation and community support, Homesteader Days 2020 was a go.
"We were in communication with RiverStone Health and came up with some plans," Hein said.
The Lions Club integrated extra sanitation, and signage to the event, as well as implementing aisles, and clear distancing indicators on the ground.
"It's not just folks getting together, but we're raising money for a lot of good causes," Rockhold said.
In the past, event proceeds have gone toward library, food bank, backpack and other programs, as well as re-surfacing the school track.
"The first day is an outdoor concert with Daryl Worley, Copper Mountain Band, and the Bucky Beaver Ground Grippers," Hein said."Think of an outdoor venue with lawn chairs and sit down and enjoy some good music and some good sound."
The second day of the event is more family-friendly.
"There's a parade in the morning and a fun run after that," Hein said.
The weekend wraps up with a favorite for all ages, fireworks.
To also help with social distancing, all tickets will be online.
Visit hplionsclub.org, or the non-profit's Facebook page for updates.
