PHILLIPS – Fifty years of memories, the theme for this week’s Phillips Old Home Days, has added some new activities to the lineup for Aug. 10-17.

The Phillips Chamber of Commerce had initiated a campaign to raise $3,000 for a display of fireworks to commemorate the week, planned for dusk on Saturday in North Franklin Park. Contributions to the show have grown to $4,000, said chamber President Janet White. It may go up to more as donations have really come in, she added.

A cruise-in night will feature several vintage vehicles on display for ribbons and prizes from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Country Delight. Although there is a regular cruise-in on Tuesday nights with up to 25 cars usually there, she said, this year the chamber tied in to make it a special night and more cars are expected.

A new craft-artisan fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday in Trecartin Park. Crafters statewide have reserved spaces to display their work, she said. And also new, the Madrid Historical Society will hold an open house this year from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, she said.

These activities are in addition to the usual events such as the Phillips Old Home Days parade starting at 5 p.m. Friday, train rides in Dill Woods, a street dance, horse pulling, lumbering competition, races, barbecues and breakfasts and even a kids frog-jumping contest – bring your own frog – planned for 1 p.m. Saturday at the Avon Mall.

This 50th year also holds special significance for members of the chamber and town. It is dedicated to Robert Beal who passed away on May 31. He was one of the original founders of the Phillips Old Home Days and would never allow organizers to honor him for his community involvement.

“We hope this will be the best one ever,” White said, adding, “we’re praying for no rain.”