Caraway, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – July 4, 2024 – The city of Caraway held their first 4th of July picnic way back in 1946. Every year since the city has made it a point to have the event. Giving current residents a chance to gather and celebrate Independence Day. And giving an opportunity for former residents that have moved elsewhere to come home for a celebratory homecoming.

The population of Caraway was between 400 and 500 back in 1946. Now the city boasts 1,133 populatio0n, which is down slightly from the city’s peak of 1,349 in 2000. But no matter the population, the annual picnic has been an important part of Caraway’s history. “Throughout its history, Caraway has been a place people “come home to,” said Caraway native Jeff Presley. “The annual Fourth of July Picnic, which began in 1946, draws people from miles away; politicians often flock to the gathering.”

The 78th Caraway 4th of July picnic started with the annual parade, followed immediately by the ceremonial “flag raising.”

Here is the rest of the day’s schedule: