The Steamboat Pilot & Today

Oak Creek’s annual Labor Day festivities kick off tonight, starting a weekend full of fun — from family events like Sunday’s Kiddie Fun Fair, to social events including barbecues and pancake breakfasts, to the sillier Oak Creek traditions such, as the Kiss the Pig contest.

The weekend’s theme — “Diamonds in the Rough” — was selected as a tribute to the area’s rich mining history and as a reflection of the people of South Routt, Oak Creek Labor Day Committee President Becky Wisecup said.

“We’re all a little rough on the inside,” Wisecup said.

The four days of festivities include lots of socializing in Decker Park and Labor Day classics, such as the greased pole and bartender races — where local servers tackle an obstacle course while balancing full trays.

“Andy Benjamin always wins,” Wisceup said about the owner of Chelsea’s Restaurant.

The Coal Queen and Coal Princess will be announced Sun­day afternoon at Decker Park. Those running already are out and about in town, selling vote tickets and building their floats for Monday’s Labor Day parade down Main Street, Wisecup said.

Tracks and Trails Museum, which will be open throughout Labor Day weekend, will hold an outdoor tent sale and also will debut its newest exhibit as part of the festivities.

The exhibit houses information about the history of local organizations, service groups and lodges active in South Routt during the years, museum curator Laurie Elendu said.

“We’re excited. We’re hoping lots of people will come in,” Elendu said. “As people say, the more the merrier.”