Davie County Masonic lodges are gearing up for the annual picnics, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 9 for Corinthian Lodge 17 in Mocksville and on Thursday, Aug. 14 for the Mocksville, Farmington and Advance Masonic lodges.

Called “Community Fest Day,” Corinthian Lodge members will hold the picnic from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9 at the Clement Grove Picnic Grounds. 

 The day replaces the traditional picnic, which the lodge has sponsored since 1884.

“Community Fest Day is celebrated to allow the local churches, public officials and community to come together and fellowship,” said Worshipful Master Bobby Bell. “The legacy of the lodge and its fellowship with the community continues as this event expands over a period of 100 years and celebrated on this same weekend.”

There will be food, fellowship and singing, including The New Voices of Faith, New Jerusalem Apostolic Church Choir, Cockerham Sisters and Soldiers for Christ.

“Often, many spectators join in the singing,” Bell said. “Local pastors and churches are encouraged to come and join us.”

Opportunities will be available to educate the community on health and social issues. The NAACP will promote membership.

There will be bingo, horseshoes and vendors selling food.

The event is free and open to the public. To participate or be a vendor, contact Bell at 336-239-0607.

Mocksville Mayor Dr. F.W. Slate will be honored at the 134th annual Masonic Picnic on Thursday, Aug. 14. The program honoring Slate begins at 11 a.m., with the famous picnic lunch at noon at Clement Grove, off North Main Street.

Bring a filled picnic basket to share, or just come hungry for the meal.