For 55 years, the Pea Ridge Fair has been an annual summer tradition.
Pea Ridge Battle Days is the name of this year's fair. It will include several "battles" as well as eight pageants Friday and Saturday and a parade on Saturday.
Schedule of pageant practice
Monday, July 6, 2015
• Little Miss, Princess, Pre-Teen, Teen
6 p.m. – Mandatory practice at the Intermediate School grounds
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
• Jr. Miss, Miss Pea Ridge
6 p.m. – Mandatory practice at the Intermediate School grounds
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
• Mr. & Miss Teeny Tot
6 p.m. – Registration and practice at the Intermediate School grounds
• Mr. & Miss Tiny Tot
7 p.m. – Registration and practice at the Intermediate School grounds
The name was changed to reflect the historic heritage of the community, James Crews, president of Beta Alpha, said. Beta Alpha hosts the annual summer event and pageants.
"This year, we are going to battle," Sandy Fletcher, Beta Alpha secretary and pageant director, said, explaining that there will be several competitions including Battle of the BBQ and Battle of the Bands.
Sorority members are renting booth space for groups to set up their own "battle," Fletcher said, adding that any activity for the youth of the community is welcome.
"For the first time since its inception, Civil War reeanctors will be on site and have demonstrations for youth and adults," Crews said.
"The Fireman's Muster is a new event this year that will be a very lively event. Firemen come to battle it out between themselves in skills testing while having a good time," Crews said. "The public is invited to be spectators."
Events include:
• Battle of the BBQ -- enter to win trophies and cash prizes in the rib cook-off or baked beans cook-off; $100, first prize; $75, second place; and $50 for third place for rib cook-off.
• Battle of the Bands -- Saturday evening, any style of music, play for about 30-45 minutes, judges will render decision on the best.
• St. Jude's Light the Ridge Red, Battle for Cancer walk -- prizes will be awarded for most money raised and the best costume.
• Fireman's Muster -- Saturday afternoon
• Civil War reenactors' demonstrations
• Spaghetti Dinner, Friday
• Bingo, dunk tank, vendor booths, concessions
• Parade -- Saturday evening
• Pageants -- three on Friday night and beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday
"It is really important for Battle Days to have the support of the community," Crews said. "This is a long-standing tradition in the community and we'd like to see it continue. The only way it can is with the support of the community. We're grateful for our sponsors and our community."
Community on 07/01/2015