CONCAN— Celebrate Garner State Park’s 75th anniversary from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, June 1, at the park’s historic pavilion at.

“This special day gives us a chance to pause and look back to honor the work and dedication of all those who made Garner State Park one of Texas’ most popular outdoor destinations,” said Steve Killian, Garner State Park superintendent.

The official program begins at 10 a.m. and features Texas State Senator Carlos Uresti along with Uvalde County Judge William Mitchell, Real County Judge Gary Merritt and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Executive Director Carter Smith.

The day’s festivities includes dancing music from the 40s, 50s and 60s, the Buffalo Soldiers, historical accounts of Garner State Park over the years, cowboy poetry and more. The classic jukebox will play songs before and after the program, so be sure to bring some dancing shoes. Booths will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Live acoustic guitar music will be played from noon to 2 p.m. near the Garner Grill restaurant.

Entrance fees are waived for those attending the program until noon.

“It’s important to provide perspective of where Garner State Park began and chart a course for a sustainable future,” said Killian. “This park has been and continues to be a place for visitors to relax, recreate and recharge with family while enjoying a diverse natural landscape for years to come.”

Garner State Park was dedicated and opened to the public June 1, 1941, after construction by Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC). The enrollees, comprised of young men, utilized locally sourced materials. The park is a testament to their hard work, dedication and craftsmanship, as their efforts created a summer gathering place for families and friends for the past 75 years.

Garner State Park was named in honor of former Uvalde County resident John Nance “Cactus Jack” Garner, vice president of the United States from 1933 to 1941.

The park is steeped in traditions, including the famous summer dances under the stars centered at the historic Pavilion. Campers and day visitors enjoy the clear, cool Frio River relaxing on tubes, paddle-boating or swimming.

For more information about the park, visit the park’s page on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s website.