Colors are starting to change, the days are getting shorter and the weather a little cooler, which can mean only one thing ? it’s time once again for Barn Daze, hosted by Orion Township Parks and Recreation.
Previously held in October, the event has been moved up to Saturday, Sept. 29 in hopes of warmer fall weather.
According to Recreation Program Supervisor Jennifer Rowe, this year’s Barn Daze will be set-up a little differently, but will still feature all of the favorites.
The main difference is that all of the activities will be centered between the building and the ball fields, and not as spread out as before.
‘I found that as a parent pushing a stroller around it’s too far to spread things out all the way down to the barn,? said Rowe, noting that she tightened the program up to make it easier for parents with small children.
‘I think it will be easier for participants to walk around and access everything,? she added.
Due to this, the hay wagon will take a slightly different route, but that is about the extent of its effect.
The event will still feature the Civil War encampment and re-enactment, hay maze, petting farm, pony rides, horseshoe throwing, the popular pickle-barrel train and much more.
Also, Rowe reminds kids to bring their socks so they can have fun on the inflatable amusements.
New to the event this year are miniature donkeys and a visit from Wowie the Clown.
According to Rowe, Wowie will be accompanied by two other clowns, and they will make balloon sculptures, as well as do face-painting and spray-on tattoos.
This year’s Barn Daze will also feature contests, with many new ones added to the favorites.
‘It wouldn’t be Barn Daze without flying pigs,? said Rowe, noting that pig throwing contest is back again this year.
Other contests include Scarecrow Stuffing, where participants will build a scarecrow; Pumpkin Flinger, where participants bring their own pumpkin (recommended pumpkin pie size) and will see how far they can fling it; Chomping for Apples and a Hot Dog Eating Contest, which Rowe said will be limited to first come, first serve and will see what contestant can eat a certain number of hot dogs the fastest.
‘We’ll see who can wolf them down the fastest,? she added. ‘Ketchup and mustard optional.?
For those who don’t get their fill of hot dogs, food will also be for sale by Mr. Pita, Kettle Corn Haus, Domino’s Pizza and Candy Bouquet, or participants can visit the Chili Challenge and purchase a kit to sample the different creations.
Barn Daze, noted as fun for all ages by Orion Township Parks and Recreation, will be held in Friendship Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some events have special times, such as Wowie’s visit (2-4 p.m.) and the various contests.
Admittance into the park is $5 per vehicle, and no-entry is allowed into the park during the event. Rowe also noted that some activities have an additional charge.
For more information, contact Parks and Recreation at (248)391-0304, ext. 143, or visit www.oriontownship.org.