Southeast Old Threshers Reunion continues

DENTON — One of the area’s most beloved traditions returns every summer for the 4th of July celebrations: The Southeast Old Threshers Reunion. This year’s 56th annual edition began June 30 and runs through July 4 at Denton FarmPark in Denton.

The five-day event celebrates America’s agricultural heritage through antique machinery, living history demonstrations, family entertainment and one of the largest collections of operating antique equipment in the Southeast.

Festivities got under way at noon June 30 with opening ceremonies. In honor of America’s 250th Anniversary, there was a special salute to the nation’s veterans for their service and sacrifice. As part of the celebration, the Freedom Truck — known as “The Country’s Rolling Museum” — was on display June 30 and will be on display again on July 1. The unique traveling museum features exhibits highlighting every US president and visitors can sign a digital copy of the Declaration of Independence. Admission into the exhibit is free.

Special guests during the week include: Jerry from Moonshiners each day, Mountain Man from Duck Dynasty on July 3 and Turtleman on July 4.

Entertainers featured include:

■ July 1 — Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Band and Country Grass.

■ July 2 — The King James Boys, the Churchmen, and the Cook Family.

■ July 3 — Special Consensus and Carolina Detour.

■ July 4 — Jake Hoot and Darrell Connor.

The Threshers’ Queen Pageant was held on June 30. Upcoming events include tractor pulls on July 2 and 3 and an antique consignment auction on July 3. There will also be train, helicopter and pony rides, a petting zoo, and many more family-fun activities.

Founded in 1970, the Southeast Old Threshers’ Reunion is the event that launched the venue now known as Denton FarmPark. The reunion features thousands of antique tractors, engines, vehicles and exhibits, along with daily demonstrations of historic farming practices and machinery. 

Visitors can explore historic buildings, watch steam-powered equipment in operation, enjoy tractor pulls, ride the Handy Dandy RailRoad, shop with vendors, and experience a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the week.

“This event is about preserving history and sharing it with future generations,” Denton FarmPark event coordinator Heather Russell said. “For 56 years, families have gathered here to celebrate our agricultural heritage and create new memories and family traditions.”

The celebration concludes on July 4 with a spectacular fireworks display at 9:30 p.m., providing a patriotic finale to a week filled with history, heritage and family fun.

Admission is $20 for adults with kids 11-under admitted free with multiple-day passes available. Gates are open for entry from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, schedules and admission details, visit www.dentonfarmpark.com or follow Denton FarmPark on social media.