‘We’re all thrilled to be back’: La Pine Frontier Days kicks off as event returns after 2020 pause

(Updated: adding video, comments from organizers)

Mountain man demos, lawn mower races, and beard competitions can all be found at La Pine's Frontier Days.

LA PINE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A four-day event that celebrates America and gives La Pine community members a chance to learn about the city's roots is back.

Last year, the celebration was canceled, as were so many fun events due to COVID-19 -- but on Thursday, a big crowd returned to make up for lost time.

Ron Barnes, a La Pine local, entered in the apple pie contest and says he's happy to see the community come together again.

"I really missed the smiles. I'm serious about them -- I love them. It's great to see all the happy people out here. You don't see too many people frowning." Barnes told NewsChannel 21.

The four-day Frontier Days is actually the longest Fourth of July celebration in the state, according to organizers. They say not only is it a great way to kick off summer, but it's also important for the community.

"We're all thrilled to be back in the game -- lots of hugs, lots of people we haven't seen in a long time and it's just very heartwarming," said Ann Gawith, president of the La Pine Frontier Days Association.

Food vendors and local businesses have tents set up for people to check out. Frontier Days will continue through Sunday.

The event has been happening since 1998, except for last year's cancellation due to COVID-19 restrictions, and continues to be the largest event in the La Pine area.

Organizers said they were "heartbroken" at not being able to hold their usual celebration last year, but glad they could still put on a special fireworks display, thanks to sponsors.

The Frontier Days feature a wide variety of events, from lawn mower races to bear and mustache contests, a barbecue "throwdown," talent show and a kids' fish pond.

Here is a schedule: