Great Bear Has One More Summer Party Up Its Sleeve

Summer is whizzing by, and before you know it, barbecues and beach parties will be replaced by Friday night lights, football games, and trunk-or-treats. But before autumn makes its annual appearance, why not squeeze in one more classic summer evening with the whole family?

The Trailgating Festival at Great Bear Recreation Park is coming up Friday, August 21, from 6 to 8 p.m., and it could be the perfect way to celebrate the final stretch of summer.

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Think of it as a tailgate party with a Great Bear twist! Families can enjoy classic yard games like cornhole and ladder toss, test their skills in a field goal challenge, and take part in a nature-themed photo scavenger hunt. There will also be creative crafts and a bouncy obstacle course that promises plenty of laughs - especially when everyone tries to conquer it!

And if you're feeling competitive, there's something just for the grown-ups, too. An 18+ cornhole tournament gets underway at 6:30 p.m., with registration beginning at 6 p.m. The tournament is limited to 32 teams, so if you want to toss your way to victory, you'll want to get registered when you arrive.

Once you've worked up an appetite, head to the lodge for food, beverages, and live music. You can relax inside in front of a roaring fire or head outdoors to the campfire, where you can toast marshmallows and make the gooey, chocolatey s'mores that are practically required for a proper summer night.

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It's the kind of evening that reminds you why summer is so much fun in the first place - games, music, good food, a little friendly competition, and plenty of time together.

So before you start digging out the sweaters and searching for the Halloween decorations, gather up the family and head to Great Bear for one more summer adventure. After all, there's still plenty of summer left to enjoy!