Fourth of July festivities on Signal Mountain will begin that Monday with a parade in Old Towne at 10 a.m. followed by the 50th annual Lions Club barbecue at the park behind Signal Mountain Golf and Country Club from 11 a.m. until food runs out.
While parades in previous years have been organized by residents in Old Towne, responsibilities for organizing the 2011 parade have been assumed by the Mountain Business Association.
"It's gotten too large for the residents, who didn't have the help or the resources to organize it," said Sandi Smith, parade contact for the MBA.
She said parade participants will gather on Ohio Avenue next to Alexian Village between 8:30 and 9 a.m., and the parade will begin at 10 and wind through Old Towne to reach the park where the barbecue is being held.
The Lions will have prepared 1,800 pounds of pork as well as baked beans and cole slaw for attendees to enjoy until it all runs out. Paul Hendricks and the Orchard Band will provide the day's entertainment, and a fireworks display is set to begin at dusk.
"It's a great family and community event that helps the Lions Club charities, and the food is great," said Paul Snyder, chairman of the Lions Club Fourth of July Barbecue.
For those who wish to celebrate the holiday at home but still want to enjoy the fruits of the Lions' labor, the club has decided to set up a drive-through station for bulk purchases for the first time this year.
"It's a way to cut down on traffic and the parking challenge, and a way to help out those who don't want to get out of their cars and wait in line," said Snyder.
Meat purchases must equal at least 1 pound and sides at least 16 ounces to be considered bulk, he said. No pre-ordering is necessary, and signage will be posted to let drivers know where to go to pick up food to go.
The Lions will continue to provide shuttle service from Signal Crest United Methodist Church to the barbecue every 15 minutes beginning at 10 a.m.
IF YOU GO
The Fourth of July Parade will begin promptly at 10 a.m. Line-up begins at 9 a.m. Cars line up on Signal Point Road. Floats and trucks line up on Ohio. Walkers, bicyclists and strollers gather in front of AlexianVillage.
For parade details, call Sandi Smith at 886-1660. For questions about the barbecue, contact Paul Snyder at 762-3090.