A family-friendly Labor Day party has been held for many years on the polo field at the 6th Cavalry Museum. But this year, Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia's citizens are taking the party to the streets in an effort to re-energize the area around LaFayette Road.
Labor Day in the Streets will debut Monday, Sept. 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Roads around the party block will be closed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Ryan Ralston, pastor of the sponsoring Liberty Baptist Church, Fort Oglethorpe campus, says there were several reasons behind the decision to move the event and rename it.
"Better visibility for the event. The area where this event is located has been on the decline for years, but the city of Fort Oglethorpe has plans to redo the area around LaFayette Road, turning the area into a 'downtown' area. This event will bring energy and excitement back to the area right before renovations start," he explains.
A group of citizens including Ralston, Judy Nihiser, Donny Lewis and individuals from the city of Fort Oglethorpe are planning the street party. The event will benefit the community, says Ralston, and money made from the church's participation will be reinvested into next year's event.
"There are also other businesses, schools, etc., which will benefit from the day," he adds.
Admission will be free; but bring cash to purchase food from food trucks and concessionaires and vendors with other items for sale.
Midnight Promise and Austin Zachary Band will entertain, with two more bands still to be added.
The street party will include a talent show, Little Miss Labor Day Pageant, pie-eating contest, tractor show, car cruise-in, corn hole tournament and kids' zone with inflatables.
"We are hoping to appeal to every age with this event," says Ralston.
"The city has been amazing to get behind this event and support it. The community has come together to support it as well, with businesses, individuals, churches and others coming together to make this event happen. I hope it's a blessing to the community and brings energy to a very important part of our town and its history."
Contact Susan Pierce at spierce@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6284.