Shrine Mont in Orkney Springs is getting ready to celebrate its 100th year — and they’re doing it in true old-time style.
This July 4th weekend, the historic retreat center will throw open its gates and welcome guests from near and far to enjoy a weekend of parades, pies, porch sittin’, and a whole lot of fun. From the sounds of it, the only thing missing might be a marching band (they’re still hoping someone signs up for that).
The heart of the weekend kicks off Friday evening with the Old Time Parade and Carnival, held at the original Fire and Rescue grounds in Orkney Springs. Expect all your favorite classic games: the dime pitch, duck pond, bingo, and more. Floats from local fire departments, scouts, families, and even campers will line up for the parade, which starts at 6:30 PM sharp. And yes, you can bring your antique car, horse, or tractor — they’re hoping for a real mix of fun and tradition.
Hungry? The carnival grounds open at 5:30 PM and offer local eats like barbecue chicken, homemade pies, and country ham. Food sales will support community groups and families in need. Shrine Mont itself will also be serving its famous home-cooked meals to overnight guests.
For early risers, Saturday morning brings the Bun Fun Run, a lighthearted 5K named after Shrine Mont’s signature homemade yeast rolls — lovingly nicknamed “butt buns” by those in the know. The race ends with one of these golden rolls waiting for you at the finish line.
Saturday night brings live music with “Nothing Fancy” performing onsite at Shrine Mont at 7 pm (Tickets available online) , followed by fireworks over at Bryce. If you’re staying at Shrine Mont, you’ll be close enough to catch the show — without the headache of a long drive home.
Beyond the weekend festivities, Shrine Mont is offering a full summer of programs and retreats. From yoga and fly fishing to painting and flower arranging, it’s the kind of place where you can slow down, unplug (Wi-Fi is limited on purpose!), and connect with your family, nature, and a simpler pace of life.
The retreat center is also a popular spot for family reunions, with meals cooked fresh and a team that keeps hospitality at the center of everything. As Development Director Kirk Gibson put it, “You’ve got to look forward in this facility — we’re preparing for the next 100 years.”
That means more than just buildings and budgets. It’s about holding onto what matters — community, nature, real food, and time together.
So if you’re still figuring out your plans for the Fourth, why not make it a local adventure? As Program Director Mary Moomaw says, “You couldn’t do any better than this.”
For more information on events, lodging, or meal reservations, visit shrinemont.com or call 540-856-2141.
