Saluda’s 62nd Coon Dog Day Festival will take place July 12. (Photo courtesy City of Saluda)

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Celebration of community, canines now in 62nd year

 

SALUDA– The annual Coon Dog Day Festival will return to downtown Saluda on Saturday, July 12, one week later than usual. This long-standing tradition, in its 62nd year, kicks off the start of summer festivities in Saluda and promises a day filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of four-legged friends.

The festivities begin at 8 a.m. on Main Street with the Saluda Elementary School 5K Fun Run. Participants of all ages are encouraged to lace up their sneakers and join in the race. 

The 5K is followed by the highlight of the day, the Coon Dog Day Parade. At 11 a.m., Main Street comes alive with a procession featuring homemade floats, local fire trucks, antique cars, and an array of coon dogs. The parade, which lasts approximately 30 minutes, is a celebration of Saluda’s heritage and community spirit.

Post-parade activities include the Every Dog’s a Star Show at 12:30 p.m., a fun-filled contest where all dogs can participate while raising funds for a great cause. At 2:30 p.m., the AKC Registered Coon Hound Dog Show takes place at the Saluda School Ball Field, with same-day registration available.

Late in the day, attendees are invited to join in the evening’s entertainment. Shagging in the Park begins at 5 p.m. with live music from Jack Roper & The Weatherman Band, followed by Square Dancing Under the Stars at 7 p.m. with the Pinnacle Mountain All Stars. The street dance will conclude the day’s festivities, and, as always, admission is free.

Established in 1949, by the Blue Ridge Coon Dog Association, Coon Dog Day, was formed with the mission of replenishing the local raccoon population. By the late 1950s, annual fundraising barbecues were held to support these efforts, paving the way for the first Coon Dog Day Parade in 1963. Since then, the event has grown exponentially, becoming a cherished tradition for both locals and visitors.

For more information or to sign up to be a volunteer, visit https://saluda.com/coon-dog-day/.