CAMPBELL HILL, IL (WSIL) -- It is a tradition dating back longer than most in attendance remember, the Village of Campbell Hill's Picnic celebration is a weekend of live music, food and games for the whole family.
Dozens were out Saturday afternoon for the Firemen's Water Fight, a friendly competition pitting towns against towns to move a barrel to one side or the other.
The Picnic was canceled last year because of the pandemic, hurting the much-needed funds raised each year. Proceeds from the event benefits the all-volunteer fire department and the local American Legion.
Campbell Hill Fire Department Lt. and Picnic Chairman Dustin Vanover says it is "great to see everyone" back out, and enjoy a water fight with area firemen-and-women rather than a fire fight.
"To me it isn't about who wins, it's about us getting together and having fun, because like I said, in the end, most of the time when we're together, it's not a fun event for any of us," explains Vanover.
Each team plays a game of "tug rope" with a barrel on a wire., using spray from their water hose to move it to one side or the other. Vanover says it can be very competitive, with a trophy and "bragging rights" on the line.
"Last year everybody was cooped up so this year they're ready to get out, get together and have some fun," says Vanover.
Joining Campbell Hill in Saturday's competition were fire departments from Ava, Desoto, Percy and Steeleville.
The Picnic kicked off Friday night with live music from bands Left Overboard and Tucker Kuhnert. The First State Bank of Campbell Hill Cruise In car show brought out classic cars, antique tractors, hot rods and low-rider trucks lining the streets with their hoods open and people checking them out.
First State Bank president Greg Richelman says it is good to see young people out, who will one day have to carry on the tradition.
"You don't see many of these homecomings anymore," says Richelman. "It's important to get the young people out here and doing this because the younger ones don't do it like the older generation."
This is the 6th year for the Cruise In, participation topped out in 2019 with 125 vehicles registered for the event. Organizers say they hope this year's numbers beat that record.
The Picnic continues Sunday with a Parade at 2 p.m., a Variety Show at 4, and music by Lewis Creek at 6.
