Old Timers’ Day is one of the county’s most family-friendly festival gatherings, held in Collinwood annually on the Saturday before the first Sunday in September. The event provides an opportunity for everyone in the community to get together for fun and fellowship, something that we have all been missing during these uncertain times of the coronavirus pandemic. Old Timers’ Day is hosted by the Collinwood Beautification Board, and activities are centered at Ralph Hughes Park. This Saturday, September 5th, is the big day!
Crowds of people begin to gather in downtown Collinwood beginning very early on the day of the event. Many people will be out and about at sun-up to enjoy the country breakfast offered by McGlamery Baptist Church, beginning at 6:00 a.m. Local churches will also be handing out free bottles of water at the park throughout the day.
From breakfast on, activities continue in anticipation for the big parade. That’s when the park is usually at its fullest. By 8 a.m., vendor booths will be in full swing, showcasing local arts and crafts, homemade goodies, and delicious food.
The parade is set to begin at 10 a.m., with Mr. and Mrs. Old Timer, Joe and Nellie Horton, leading the parade up Highway 13 toward Collinwood. Lineup for the parade will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Bratton Drive.
The festivities at the park will officially begin with the invocation offered by Collinwood Mayor Glenn Brown, and the National Anthem performed by Mrs. Lisa Calton and her granddaughters. Live musical performances will begin at 11:00 a.m., including Eddie Thompson and the Band of Brothers, Southern Fire, and Johnny Moser’s Big River Band. Chuck Koblentz, owner and DJ of WWON Radio, will once again be the MC for the event. Collinwood football, baseball, and softball players, cheerleaders, and marching band are expected to be introduced at the event as well.
Vendors will be allowed to set up from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, September 4th, or Saturday morning, September 5th. All vehicles must be out of the park no later than 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, and will not be allowed back in before 5:00 p.m. No exceptions!
Old Timers Day is more than just a festival, it is a day where everyone is welcome and can find something to enjoy in the wonderful small town of Collinwood, Tennessee.
For more information on the Old Timers’ Day event, call Peggy Chambers at 931-724-9918 or 931-212-9016.
