State Forestry Celebrates Smokey Bear Days

Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
Published: 28 April 2017 28 April 2017

Capitan, NM - Come help us celebrate Smokey Bear's Birthday Friday May 5, and Saturday May 6 at Smokey Bear Historical Park. The free two-day festival honors Capitan's hometown hero with plenty of activities and entertainment the whole family can enjoy!

The event, sponsored by New Mexico State Forestry's Smokey Bear Historical Park and the Smokey Bear Hometown Association, celebrates the real-life Smokey Bear. Firefighters saved Smokey as a cub during the devastating "Capitan Gap Wildfire" in 1950. The little black bear's image later became an icon of fire prevention along with Smokey's slogan "Only you can prevent forest fires". The Smokey Bear campaign has been educating the public about the dangers of unwanted, human-caused wildfires for more than 70 years creating a multi-generational, and international impact.

"What a wonderful experience to be able to enjoy a parade, street vendors, Firefighters Challenge, chainsaw carving contest and so much more. At the same time, it's a great way to educate the public on the importance of preventing wildfires and preserving our forests for future generations" said Bennie Long, Smokey Bear Historical Park Manager.

On Friday May 5th, events include the Smokey memorabilia collectables and plant sale, the kids bicycle safety course, plenty of music, and some fun educational opportunities for children and adults of all-ages. Saturday May 6th, kicks off with a pancake breakfast sponsored by the Fraternal Order of Eagles #4301 followed by a parade, the Firefighters Challenge, plus an evening dance party featuring the sound of the Longhorn Dance Band. You can also join Smokey as he cuts and shares his birthday cake! Both days include additional activities and entertainment which you can find at http://www.smokeybeardays.com.

And don't forget to pick up this year's commemorative Smokey Bear Days Button! Cole Wilson, from Ms. Burdett's 5th grade class at Capitan Elementary School, is our 2017 winner! (photo attached) This year's theme was "Together we can do it". Congratulations Cole!

It's easy to get to Smokey Bear Historical Park. It's right in the heart of Capitan at 118 Smokey Bear Boulevard and Highway 380. It is 20 miles east of Carrizozo, 27 miles northeast of Ruidoso, and 12 miles west of Lincoln, New Mexico. The park will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, contact Smokey Bear Historical Park at 575- 354-2748 or email smokeybear.park@state.nm.us.

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