SOUTH FORK — Many years ago the Town of South Fork began a tradition in the San Luis Valley and the event known as the Third of July has grown year after year. Now guests come from all over to enjoy a long holiday beginning with celebrations on July 3 and stretching all the way to the end of the Fourth of July.
The celebration kicks off on Monday morning with the annual catfish fry fundraiser held by the South Fork Fire Rescue (SFFR). This event is the only fundraiser the organization hosts every year, and it draws hundreds of people. It is a sight to be seen as members of SFFR gather around a table as they first dredge delicious catfish filets in cornmeal flour and then fry pounds upon pounds for the hungry crowd.
There is plenty to do while waiting for the catfish to be served — check out the silent auction with items ranging from overnight stays in and around the Valley, rounds of golf and much more. There will also be vendors in the back courtyard selling homemade wares. The catfish fry opens at 10 a.m. and will serve food until 2 p.m.
The catfish fry finishes just in time for guests to wander through the shops in South Fork and at 3 p.m. the annual Third of July parade kicks off along the Frontage Road that runs parallel to Highway 160 just west of town. This year’s theme is “America the Beautiful”, and guests are encouraged to sign up and join in the festivities with decorated ATVs, OHVs, bikes, trikes or yourself. For more information on how to participate in the parade, contact the South Fork Visitor Center at 719-873-5512.
Later in the day, the town will host Rockin’ the Rio Grande Rodeo out at the Rickel Rodeo Arena. This event is sure to captivate audiences of every age. The non-stop rodeo action includes bull riding, barrel racing and much more. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. with concessions provided by the South Fork Kiwanis.
The night will end, weather conditions permitting, with a bang as always. The Town of South Fork plans to host a firework display at dark from the Rio Grande Club and Resort that can be viewed in several locations around town. The visitor center parking lot is the perfect place to set up a chair to sit back and enjoy the show.
For more information or a full schedule of events, visit www.southfork.org.
