Armed Forces Day weekend is undoubtedly all about celebrating our military who do all they can to protect our freedoms, but it is also a time for people to reconnect with friends, family, and pay homage to our local servicemembers. With that, it’s okay to let loose and imbibe a bit after the sun goes down (or even while it is still up). Here are some noteworthy events for those 21 and older…and keep in mind that if you plan on spending your entire weekend at Barley’s then consider buying an all-you-can-drink wristband for $199, on sale now.
Horseshoe Tourney and Patriotic Party at Barley’s
May 18 at 6 pm and May 19 at 8 p.m.
Barley’s is kicking off AFD Weekend with a Patriotic Party featuring Urban Cowboy, who is an MC, singer, country music DJ, and karaoke host. Beer pong will likely be set up as well. Barley’s is also hosting a horseshoe tournament this Thursday, May 18 at 6 p.m.; it costs $10 to enter.
Trike Races at Barley’s Are Back
May 20 at 7 p.m.
Watch your friends try to navigate a fat-tired, kind-of heavy tricycle through an obstacle course around Barley’s property in this fun, annual event. As part of the race, trike riders must visit certain stops, take shots, slam drinks, spin in circles, and continue through to the finish line. Participants have the chance to win prizes in its three categories: Men’s, Women’s, and Combined. It’s entertaining to watch people run into each other, tip over, and get a little disoriented as they try to navigate the course.
At 5 p.m. on Saturday there will also be a family-friendly cornhole tournament with a $25 registration fee.
Art Jones Band at El Capitan
May 19-20 at 9 p.m.
After watching the fireworks at El Capitan on Friday night, head inside to dance your heart away to the Art Jones Band from Walker Lake.
Dock 6 Plays at Barley’s Sports Bar
May 20 at 8 p.m.
A bit after the Trike Races begin, local band Dock 6 will be playing live music from 8 p.m. to midnight (or longer if there’s enough interest!) This rock/metal/alternative band is based right here in Hawthorne, Nevada.
Block Party at Gil’s
May 20 all day
A lot is going on at Gil’s this Saturday to celebrate AFD that’s worth checking out…starting at noon, a kids carnival will be available until 5 p.m. and there’s rumor of a beer can basketball event. Then see who is the strongest at the tug-of-war contest between Gil’s Place and VFW after the parade and stick around for some live music. Fawn of the Flame is playing from 2-5 p.m., Mr. Johnson (the country duo from Reno) will play from 5-9 p.m., and Moral Demise headlines Gil’s Place until midnight. Red, white, and blue jello shots will be available, along with a wet T-shirt contest that starts at 7 p.m. (must be 21 or older to enter).
And whatever you do this weekend, stay safe and have a designated driver!
