RANGELEY – Cowboy boots, hats and other paraphernalia will highlight the western theme for this year’s Oquossoc Day and Dance. This third annual celebration will be held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday in the village of Oquossoc.

All are welcome to don their Western attire and attend activities scheduled throughout the day, said organizer Linda Sikes, who works with Joanne Koob and Debbie White to make the event happen.

“The celebration started two years ago as part of Rangeley’s sesquicentennial but it was such a success, the tradition has continued,” Sikes said.

After an arts and antique show at 10 a.m. at Gallery At Stony Batter Station and the Doggie Garden Show dog show at 11 a.m. at the Farmer’s Wife, spectators may watch the second annual boat parade at 2 p.m. in Oquossoc Cove, she said.

“Boats adorned with western decorations will hopefully top last year’s Hawaiian theme that brought more palm trees to Rangeley Lake than you can imagine,” she said.

Both motorized and nonmotorized boats are welcome to participate but must register for judging. Awards include a silver-plated, engraved bowl on a pedestal and pewter mugs. Participants may register at Oquossoc Marine prior to 2 p.m.

After the parade, Friends of Mountain Aviation will fly over the area at 3 p.m.

One of the most-watched events, she said, is an activity titled Bomb the Bismarck and held at 3:30 p.m. in Oquossoc Cove. A target is placed in the cove and pilots from Friends of Mountain Aviation fly over dropping bags of kitty litter. A 50/50 raffle is held in conjunction and whichever bombardier comes closest to the target wins.

The day’s activities culminate in a potluck dinner and dance with a 16-piece orchestra, Al Corey’s Band. A social begins at 5 p.m. followed by the meal where organizers’ furnish the meat and those attending bring entrees, appetizers and dessert. The dinner and dance will be held rain or shine, she said.

While there is a $14 charge for the dinner and dance, proceeds after expenses are donated to the Rangeley Fire Department, Oquossoc Station, she said. The first year, 250 people attended and they were able to donate $1,300. Last year, it grew to 350 people and a donation of $3,300 was made.

The residents got together to form this day because “it was the only thing any of us could think of that would benefit everyone,” Sikes said.

Area stores and restaurants will join in on the fun offering specials, live music and a children’s inflatable game area.

The Rangeley Region Guide’s and Sportsmen will hold a silent auction at the site of the group’s future museum.

For more information, phone Sikes at 491-6566, Koob at 864-5584 or White at 864-2330.