Community Celebrates Independence With Themed Events
Pinehurst is preparing to ring in America’s 250th anniversary next weekend with its annual Pinehurst Days festival, transforming the Silver Valley community into a patriotic celebration from July 31 through August 2. The event, traditionally held during the first weekend in August, has been reimagined this year around the nation’s bicentennial milestone with colonial-era themes, vintage vehicles, and family-friendly attractions.
Brad Kitchen, a co-chair of the festival, explained the vision driving this year’s programming. “Our goal is to make this year a celebration of our Founding Fathers. We wanted to do our part and celebrate America,” Kitchen said. The organizers are encouraging attendees to arrive in period costume from 1776 or colonial dress to enhance the historical atmosphere throughout the three-day event.
Friday Kicks Off With Food and Music
The festival opens Friday with the Lions Club burger stand launching at 1 p.m., followed by a steak dinner from 5 to 8 p.m. featuring live music to set the celebratory tone for the weekend ahead.
Saturday: Parade, Cars, and New Family Activities
Saturday will be the centerpiece of the celebration. The Comancheros Car Club is bringing its 21st Annual Rod and Custom Show, with registration beginning at 8 a.m. Classic and custom vehicles from across the region are expected to draw enthusiasts and families to view the meticulously restored automobiles.
The parade, which steps off at 11 a.m., will feature a special grand marshal: Bob Fischer, a longtime member of the P-K Lions Club Centurian group, who will lead the procession from an antique Model A Ford. Staging and sign-up for parade participants begins at 10 a.m. at Auto Kolor. During the parade route, organizers plan to distribute 1,000 American flags (4 inches by 6 inches) to marchers and spectators as a patriotic touch.
Two new attractions are making their debut this year. A dunk tank will feature Pinehurst Police Chief John Richter, offering spectators a chance to take aim at the law enforcement leader for a cause. Additionally, a firehose hockey event has been added to the Saturday schedule, combining athletic competition with summer fun.
Burn Outs and Demo Competition Return
The Burn Outs event, a fan favorite featuring high-energy vehicle demonstrations and controlled automotive destruction, returns Saturday at 7 p.m. on Silver Valley Road near Real Life Ministries. This year, leadership of the event has passed to the Page Posse, a group headed by Paul Twidt, Chad Weeks, Tim O’Brien, and Josh Greenwood. They assume the role previously held by Nick and Miranda Elam, who successfully brought the event back to prominence in recent years.
Twidt expressed enthusiasm for the new team’s direction. “Nick and Miranda have done an awesome job bringing it back. I enjoy the carnage—it goes right along with demo derbies,” he said. The Burn Outs event is free to watch, though entry fees apply for participants who wish to compete.
Weekend Concludes With Youth Racing
The three-day festival wraps up Sunday, August 2, with a BMX Bike Race, offering young riders and families a final community gathering before the celebration closes.
Pinehurst Days has been a staple of the Silver Valley calendar for years, drawing residents and visitors from surrounding communities. This year’s America 250 theme reflects both the nation’s milestone anniversary and the community’s commitment to celebrating its heritage and values. The festival showcases the collaborative spirit of local organizations including the Lions Club and car enthusiasts who contribute time and resources to make the event possible.
The event offers something for all ages—from dining and classic automobiles to children’s activities and community traditions—making it a quintessential small-town celebration. For those planning to attend, the weekend promises three days of patriotic festivities, local pride, and family entertainment in the heart of the Silver Valley.
For more information on Pinehurst Days or to register vehicles and parade participants, attendees are encouraged to contact event organizers through local channels or visit the Lions Club directly.