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Montreat’s Fourth of July Festivities a Real Treat
At Montreat, the Fourth of July is more than just our nation’s birthday. It’s also a kind of homecoming, as everyone with connections to Montreat gathers for the celebration and parade.
The annual parade isn’t fancy and full of floats, but it is full of fun. In addition to the fire truck and the bagpipers, there are people pushing strollers and folks walking their dogs. There’s plenty to see, as everywhere you look are balloons, crazy hats, and outrageous costumes. Remember to look down as well – the children and small dogs underfoot are probably also in shades of red, white, and blue.
The day begins bright and early with the 7th Annual Montreat Gait 5k race at 7 AM. Be sure to get to the parade early to get a good seat – it starts at 10:30 and is followed by the flag-raising ceremony at Anderson Auditorium. The parade will start near the Chapel of the Prodigal, come down Lookout Road, turn right on Assembly Drive, go around the lake and back to Anderson Auditorium.
If you’re getting hungry at this point, the Montreat Cottagers are having their annual barbecue at Anderson Auditorium, starting at 11:45 AM. More traditions fill up the rest of the day, including crafts, swimming, boating on Lake Susan, greased pole climbing, and the Old-Timers’ softball game. To finish off the day, come to the square dance from 7-9:30 PM at the tennis courts by the Post Office. The dance will be in the Barn in the event of rain.
Before the parade, head over to the Presbyterian Heritage Center from 9 to 10 AM to see the new exhibit, Presbyterians in Appalachia, and have some coffee. There’s also just time to get an early peek at the Library Book Sale, which is open from 8:30 AM to 4 PM. After lunch – hope you enjoyed the barbecue! – head on over to the Currie Craft Center for the silent auction and the year-round artists’ exhibit.
Charlie Caldwell, the Public Works Director for the Town of Montreat, is grand marshal for this year’s parade. He and the 4th of July Activities Committee welcome everyone to this year’s celebration, which is open to the public.