Celebrate heroes and hometown pride at Pinehurst Days
Smokey Bear and Sparky are always fan favorites during the annual Pinehurst Days Parade.
Courtesy photo
PINEHURST — The Pinehurst/Kingston Lions Club announced the return of Pinehurst Days from Friday to Sunday.
This year’s theme, “Honoring Heroes,” invites the community to celebrate the everyday heroes among us, especially those in emergency services and the military, while also showing pride in the United States.
“This year, we wanted to do something truly special to recognize the heroes who serve and protect us every day,” said Brad Kitchen, president of the Pinehurst/Kingston Lions Club. “We hope to see the community come out in full force — waving flags, building floats and showing their appreciation.”
A highlight of the weekend will be the 1,000 Flags Parade on Saturday. The parade will feature at least 1,000 American flags lining the route and carried by participants.
Lineup begins at 10 a.m. at South Division and Ohio, with the parade kicking off at 11 a.m. following a commemorative cannon shot. Grand marshals are Gary Yergler, Lion of the Year, and Kathy McPeak, Volunteer of the Year.
The celebration continues all weekend with vendors, a car show, BMX bike races, music, a steak dinner from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Lions Club building, the Lions breakfast from 6 to 10 a.m. Saturday and a crowd favorite, burnouts, starting at 7 p.m. Saturday on Silver Valley Road.
The Lions Club will also be accepting retired U.S. flags for proper disposal and distributing flag etiquette pamphlets near the burger wagon Saturday.
“Pinehurst Days is more than just a celebration, it’s a way for us to give back,” Kitchen added.
Every dollar raised supports local programs, from youth scholarships to vision care for those in need, he said.