Northeast Arkansas town continues 76-year tradition

CARAWAY, Ark. (KAIT) - A Fourth of July tradition continues in Caraway.

Like many events in 2020, the annual picnic was canceled due to COVID-19.

“Well we did have to shut down for one year for the COVID in 2020, but other than that we have had it every year 1946 or 1947,” said Roger Williams, the event coordinator.

The picnic started out as a way to welcome home soldiers following World War II.

“This picnic was started by three ladies that wanted to welcome home the soldiers after the Second World War,” Williams said.

The idea grew and a tradition was born.

The annual event is held every Independence Day, unless July 4 falls on a Sunday.

“We just want to keep it going as long as we can because we enjoy the fellowship and the people that come out and helped us get this thing together,” Williams said.

Local stores donate toys, cash, and other goods for raffle prizes and volunteers turn out to tend booths and cook some delicious food.

The coordinators and volunteers are thrilled with the turnout and said to expect changes for an even better show next year!

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