News

Nothin' but a hound dog? Saluda festival has plenty more

By Bill Moss, Published: June 27, 2024

SALUDA — Saluda’s 61st Annual Coon Dog Day on Saturday, July 6, features a full day of family-friendly activities, beginning with the Saluda Elementary School 5K Fun Run and culminating in an evening of square dancing under the stars.

Here's the schedule:

• 8 a.m.: Saluda Elementary School 5K Fun Run. Start and finish on Main Street. Sign-up required.
• 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.: Vendors open with a shuttle service from public parking on Howard Gap Road
• 11 a.m.: Coon Dog Day Parade
• 12:30 p.m.: “Every Dog’s a Star Show.” A fun contest and fundraising event for all dogs.
• 1:30 p.m.: Firefighter Agility Contest. Showcasing the skills and agility of our brave firefighters.
• 2:30 p.m.: AKC Sanctioned Coonhound Dog Show at Saluda School Ball Field. Same-day registration available.
• 5 p.m.: Shagging in the Park with Jack Roper and the Weatherman Band. Dance the evening away with classic beach shag dancing.
• 7 p.m.: Square Dancing Under the Stars. Enjoy traditional square dancing in a picturesque outdoor setting.

“We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this vibrant community event, which brings together everyone for a day of fun and festivity,” said Emily Lamar, co-chair. “Whether you’re a local resident or visiting from out of town, Coon Dog Day offers something for everyone.”

The origins of Coon Dog Day date back to 1949 when George Johnson formed the Blue Ridge Coon Club, later known as the Blue Ridge Coon Dog Association, to replenish the dwindling local raccoon population. By the late 1950s, the club hosted annual fundraising barbecues, which led to the first Coon Dog Day parade in 1963. Since then, the event has grown, adding music, dancing, arts, food, and a 5K race, but the dogs still reign supreme.