Flare Night at Popham Beach will take place on Friday, Aug. 16, beginning with the annual parade at 7:30 p.m. from the Ft. Baldwin parking lot. The parade, which celebrates the arrival of the Popham Colonists in 1607, will be led by founder George Popham and his second-in-command, Raleigh Gilbert, portrayed by Popham residents in costume. The parade will progress through the village ending at Ft. Popham. Town vehicles such as fire trucks and an ambulance have been invited to the parade, along with local children and antique cars.

A giant beach bonfire caps the evening as flares light up the historic fort and the Kennebec River beach.

Children are encouraged to attend and walk in the parade if accompanied by a parent or guardian; costumes are optional and pre-registration is not necessary. All parade participants will meet at 7 p.m. at the parking area at the base of Fort Baldwin, located straight ahead where the road veers sharply right when entering Popham Village.

Before the parade, the Popham Circle members will offer a Café from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Chapel House (beside the chapel) where they will offer light dinners, snacks and beverages. All are welcome!

This program is brought to you by PBIA, The Popham Beach Improvement Association in conjunction with the Popham Library. For more information please stop by the library at 965 Popham Road, Phippsburg, or contact Barbara Ketonic at bkeltonic@gmail.com