Chadron State Park wraps up its 103rd birthday celebration today with a full slate of activities until 5:00. KCSR-AM will broadcast live from the park from 10:00-2:00.
Assistant Park Superintendent Josh May says there are a couple of events that begin ahead of the official 10:00 start of the day.
One is the Run for the Hills, part of the Pine Ridge Trails Race series and offering options of 1-mile, 5K, 10K, and half-marathon. Registration starts at 7:00 with all the races taking off at 8:00 at the turnoff to the Black Hills Overlook
The other is free paddleboat rides from 9-2:00, but May says most of today’s activities take place in the picnic area by the shooting gallery.
May says there’s a bounce house, blacksmith demonstrations, music from 11-2:00 by Pete Butler, and over 40 food and craft vendors. Other parts of Nebraska Game and Parks have special programs or displays planned.
Nearly all this year’s activities are on the lower level between the pond and park Trading Post. May says one exception is taking place at the stables.
The Chadron State Park’s birthday celebration now includes the annual Chadron Kiwanis Canoe Regatta, which began as part of Fur Trade Days. Kiwanis spokesman Duane Gardner says registration begins at 2:00 with racing getting underway at 2:30.
A state park entry pass is required, but can be purchased by the gate. Josh May says parking will also be closer this year.
The last of the activities, including the beer garden, will close at 5:00.