Do you have a competitive spirit, but the idea of throwing a pig just isn’t your thing? No to worry, the Orion Township Parks and Recreation Department promises that no pigs will be harmed during their Pig Throwing contest at this year’s Barn Daze.
‘People are very concerned about the pigs,? said Jennifer Rowe of the parks and recreation department. ‘They will not be hurt.?
Contestants will be judged on distance and accuracy, and Rowe said the contest will closely resemble that of punt, pass and kick.
‘It’s a new thing we’re doing this year,? she said. ‘I read about it in a parks and recreation magazine.?
The pigs weigh about two pounds each, and must be thrown by the front legs. Anyone 12 years or older is welcome to participate.
‘They can win a trophy and a ham as well,? said Rowe.
In addition to pig throwing, the annual Cow Pie Eating and Husband Calling contests are back this year. Barn Daze will also feature a Civil War Encampment and Re-Enactment, Radio Controlled Airplane Buddy Fly, Porritt Barn tours, Pumpkin Patch and family polaroids, and American Gothic ‘Olde Time? polaroids.
Other activities include: Hay wagon rides, Fall Family portraits, horseshoe throwing, face painting, carnival games, inflatable amusements, pony rides, a storyteller, antique tractor display, wood carving, barn paintings, hunting dog and Gristmill.
The Orion Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual Chili Challenge at Barn Daze, and other food offered will include cider and donuts, kettle corn, hot dogs and soda, ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery, baked goods, BW-3 Grill and Pub, Montana’s Cookhouse and Ruby Tuesday.
Dance for Fun will perform from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on the Pavilion stage, and young Orion country sensation Crystal Lynn will take the stage at 2 p.m.
Cow Pie Eating begins at 12:30 p.m., Husband Calling at 1 p.m., and Pig Throwing at 1:30 p.m. on the Pavilion stage. (All contests require registration 15 minutes prior to event).
Barn Daze is Oct. 9 at Friendship Park (corner of Clarkston and Baldwin Roads). Events are 11 a.m.-5 p.m., and there is a $5 entrance fee per car. Some additional cost for games and food. Proceeds from the event benefit the improvement of Orion Township Parks.
For more information call 391-0304, ext. 143.