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The 139th Masonic Picnic will be Saturday, Aug. 10 at the Masonic Picnic Grounds in Mocksville.

The event, believed to be the oldest running Masonic charitable event in the state, began the same year James Garfield, 20th President of the United States, was elected, 1880. It is co-sponsored by Mocksville, Farmington and Advance Masonic lodges.

While “The Picnic,” as it is known to most residents, has changed over the years, the beneficiary hasn’t. The proceeds raised go to the Masonic Home for Children in Oxford. The Home opened in 1873 to give children in need a place to live, grow, and thrive. It operates solely on funding from the Masons, said Adam Ressa, who is a Mason and is on the Picnic planning committee.

The event will begin at 5 p.m. with speakers from local lodges, followed by the honoring of Julius Suiter, who is a Mason, a retired educator and coach, and an active leader in the community. Ressa said Suiter was also his principal when he was growing up.

Following the speakers will be the traditional meal, which may include everything from fried chicken to tomato sandwiches to all kinds of desserts. The cost per plate is $8 but anyone who takes a covered dish to the event may eat for free. Local restaurants will also contribute to the meal.

Ressa said folks who plan to take food should arrive around 4 to get their food on to the tables.

During and after the meal, music will be provided by His & Hers, a local folk/bluegrass duo consisting of Caleb and Sara Davis. There will be a bounce house provided by D’s Cloud Bounce for the children, and the Boy Scouts will have a 50/50 raffle, with tickets sold during the meal and the winner announced afterward.

The event will be held rain or shine, but the forecast is looking favorable for that evening.

“Come out and be a part of history as we support the Masonic Home for Children and enjoy fellowship by honoring Brother Julius Suiter, good music, good food, and time spent with friends and family,” said Ressa.