The Braxton Volunteer Fire Department is set to celebrate a major milestone this spring, marking 50 years of dedicated service to the community of Braxton.
To commemorate five decades of protecting and serving local families, Braxton Fire Rescue will host a community-wide celebration and annual fundraiser on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
The celebration promises a full day of activities designed for all ages, along with several new and exciting additions to this year’s event.
The event will feature a variety of attractions, including a Firefighter Challenge Room experience, a car show, raffles, bingo, and a cake walk. Children can enjoy bounce houses and water slides, while families can take part in games, prizes, a dunking booth, and a petting zoo.
Vendor booths showcasing local goods will be set up throughout the day, and food plates will be available beginning at 11 a.m.
A centerpiece of the anniversary celebration will be the 50th Anniversary Pageant, honoring the department’s long-standing commitment to the community. The all-crown pageant will include divisions for Infant, Toddler, Little Miss/Mr., Preteen, Teen, Miss, and Mrs., with every contestant receiving a crown.
The pageant is designed to celebrate community pride and offer participants of all ages an opportunity to be part of the department’s historic milestone.
Contestants are encouraged to wear their favorite dresses, with natural dresses preferred. Makeup should be age appropriate, though stones and gems are welcome.
The event emphasizes fun and personality, with organizers noting that personality is what truly brings home the win.
The pageant will be held at Braxton Baptist Church gymnasium, located at 101 Oak Ave. in Braxton. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m., and the pageant will begin at 1 p.m.
A highlight of the celebration will be the presentation of the Randy Hays Legacy Service Award to the contestant with the most verified community service hours. It will include a cash prize.
The honor recognizes Chief Randy Hays and his 35 years of service to Simpson County, celebrating his legacy of leadership and dedication.
The 50th anniversary event not only celebrates the department’s history but also serves as a fundraiser to support ongoing operations and equipment needs. Over the past five decades, the Braxton Volunteer Fire Department has remained committed to safeguarding lives and property in Braxton and surrounding communities.
Braxton Fire Rescue invites residents and visitors alike to come out, participate, and help celebrate 50 years of service, growth, and community pride.
