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BROOKSVILLE — Sipping on root beer floats and participating in sack races. Eating hot dogs and sitting on a blanket to watch fireworks.
This was considered a perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July more than 50 years ago. And — if the weather cooperates — families can re-create that atmosphere when the Hernando County Fair Association presents an Olde Tyme Celebration on Saturday at the Hernando County Fairgrounds.
"We've been so worried about the weather," Mona Simpson-Premorel, fair association vice president, said this week as Tropical Storm Debby caused flooding throughout Hernando County. "We had no damage, but it's been real soggy. Hopefully we'll get a day to dry out, with some good, hot sunshine."
Regardless, Simpson-Premorel has a good feeling that this weekend's inaugural event will be a hit.
It kicks off with a pancake breakfast, to be followed by old-fashioned games such as sack races, water games and egg races.
"We want the new generation to learn some of the real old-time games we did as kids," Simpson-Premorel said.
There will also be a dunk tank, where folks will have a chance to soak local politicians and other notable members of the community.
The fair association will handle all of the cooking and will offer hot dogs, hamburgers, a sundae bar and refreshments. Most items will be $1, including the sundaes. A meal of a hot dog, chips and soda will be $2. The pancake breakfast will also be $2.
"We're trying to make it reasonable for families," Simpson-Premorel said, "so families can spend the day and not spend a fortune."
Those interested may also enter a corn hole contest that will have $500 in prizes. There will be about 30 vendors on site.
Musical entertainment will kick off at 1 p.m. with the Hernando Youth Orchestra performing The Star-Spangled Banner. There will be cloggers performing at about 4 p.m., and in the evening the Terry Cole Show will entertain with Southern rock and country music.
The day will end with fireworks. The display will start at about 9:15 p.m., and people are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
"We want this to be a real community-type event," Simpson-Premorel said, "and for everyone to have a really good time. ... If it is successful, hopefully this will become an annual event."
