Tiny Tots pageant one of original events

DECATUR — “That’s my boy up there,” a proud father shouts out from among a crowd of spectators as a young child walks across the stage at Veterans Park in Decatur.

There will be many more proud parents, grandparents and family members cheering their kids on as they participate in the 65th Annual Decatur Barbecue Tiny Tots pageant on the stage at Veterans Park in Decatur on Aug. 4 at 4 p.m.

The Tiny Tots pageant was one of the original events of the first Decatur Barbecue, then the Decatur Barbecue Homecoming in 1953. More than 35 area children lined the stage for a chance to become the first Mister or Miss Decatur Tiny Tots.

In the 64 years of the event, more than 500 Decatur, Gentry, Gravette and other area children stood on the stage at Old City Park and Veterans Park vying for the title. Only 64 girls and 65 boys (there was a tie in 2015) actually held the Tiny Tots title.

The Tiny Tots contest is open to kids, ages 4-6. Participants are required to preregister and attend a rehearsal at the stage in Veterans Park Aug. 3 at 7 p.m.

For Decatur Barbecue parade fans, the kids will hitch a ride aboard the Tiny Tots contestant float. Barbecue spectators will get their first glimpse at all the entries as the float makes its way from Old City Park, through downtown Decatur, and to Veterans Park. The parade begins at 1:30 p.m. All contestants in the Tiny Tots contests need to report to the float by 12:45 p.m.

For more information, contact Ladale Clayton at 479-372-8632.

Westside Eagle Observer/MIKE ECKELS Jazzi Lovett (left), Miss Tiny Tots 2016, shares a moment with Grace Hughes, who was crowned Miss Tiny Tots during the Decatur Barbecue on Aug. 5, 2017.