Bristol Celebrates 35th Anniversary of Day in the Park

BRISTOL, Va. — The whole town came alive as dozens of folks gathered to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Day in the Park event. It’s been a long-standing tradition that brings the community together every summer before school starts again. This year, the event felt extra special, marking over three decades of fun and togetherness.

One of the best parts about the Day in the Park is that it is completely free, making it accessible to everyone in the community. The event has something for everyone, from free haircuts to delicious food and numerous booths set up by various community organizations. It’s a practical and fun way for many families to get ready for the new school year.

Harry Anderson, the event founder and organizer, shared his thoughts on the significance of the event. “When we didn’t have it all these years, we had people coming by my house getting school supplies and we’d go get it for them. Some of them they expect it; they look forward to it. We’ve done it all these many years and we get people who come to town just for this event,” he said.

Perfect End to Summer Break

For students and their families, the Day in the Park serves as the perfect way to wrap up summer break. Virginia High student Landon Lee expressed his excitement about the event. “I think it’s good for the kids in the community to be able to have something like this going on. To come out here and get free food and drinks and just have a good time with your friends,” he said.

With so much to do, the park was buzzing with activities. Kids ran around with their friends, enjoying various games and activities while parents chatted with neighbors and caught up on each other’s lives. The smell of grilled food filled the air, and the sound of laughter was everywhere.

More Than Just Fun

Besides being a fun-filled day, the Day in the Park has a much deeper purpose. It’s about helping to support families and ensure that every child goes back to school feeling ready and confident. The free haircuts and school supplies, for example, can make a world of difference for many families.

Various community organizations set up booths to provide resources and information on everything from health services to local activities. This is an excellent opportunity for families to learn about what their community has to offer and how they can get involved.

Residents love the sense of connection this event fosters. One attendee mentioned, “It’s more than just a day at the park. It’s a day where the entire community comes together. You get to see people you haven’t seen in a while and meet new friends. It’s like a giant family reunion.”

A Beloved Tradition

For 35 years, the Day in the Park has been a staple in Bristol. It’s an event that everyone looks forward to, marking the end of summer and the beginning of a new school year. Many people shared that they feel proud of how the event has grown and evolved over the years.

Though the event has seen changes and improvements over the decades, at its heart, it remains a celebration of community spirit. It’s a reminder of the power of coming together and supporting each other.

Looking Ahead

As the day came to a close, many attendees were already looking forward to next year’s event. With each passing year, the expectation and excitement grow. This beloved tradition in Bristol shows no signs of slowing down.

To stay connected with events and news in Bristol, follow the local updates and community boards. Here’s to many more years of the Day in the Park and the lasting memories it creates.

Happy 35th Anniversary, Day in the Park! Here’s to many more!

Stay tuned and stay involved, Bristol!