Patten Pioneer Days digs the 50s

  PATTEN, Maine — The era of poodle skirts, leather jackets and pompadour hair styles gets a breath of new life starting Monday, Aug. 3 with Patten Pioneer Days’ “50’s soc hop” theme.
Patten Recreation Director Melissa Strang said, “this year’s town celebration is a lot bigger” and she hopes to see not only area residents but visitors and tourists, too.
Strang says some of the exciting additions to the festival include a Geo Bash she describes as “a treasure hunt with GPS devices”, a Mr. Hairy Legs Contest — a beauty contest for men dressed as women, cow patty Bingo involving real cows, a “Gong Show”-type talent show and a 50’s Soc Hop adult dance (BYOB). There will also be a farmers’ market and vendors selling crafts, jewelry and cotton candy.  (See complete schedule on Page Ten.)
Among the traditional scheduled activities are fireworks, Friday Aug. 7, 9 p.m. at Shin Pond and a 50’s themed parade Saturday, Aug. 8, 10 a.m.
Strang says there will be a chili eating contest and one for baking in addition to demonstrations, dinners  and other food events.
For the athletically inclined, she says she’s really looking forward to having more people sign up for the co-ed softball teams this year to play in the tournament on the closing day, Sunday, Aug. 9 at 4 p.m.
The week-long celebration also includes Lumberman’s Museum shows, historical presentations, children’s activities and contests, church-sponsored programs and music events as well as health fair activities.
For more information, contact the Patten Rec Department, 528-2902 or visit: gotopatten.com.