Cunningham, TN – A little rain was no match for one of Montgomery County’s most cherished traditions as hundreds of people made their way to Cunningham on Saturday, July 25th, for the 118th Annual Lone Oak Picnic, hosted by Central Civitan.
The long-running community celebration once again brought together families, friends, neighbors, and visitors from across the region for a day filled with mouthwatering barbecue, live bluegrass music, community, and the opportunity to meet candidates seeking local and state offices ahead of the August election.
Although occasional light showers passed through during the afternoon, they did little to dampen the festive atmosphere. Guests filled the serving lines early, enjoyed conversations under tents and shade trees, and gathered around the stage as The Back Lot Pickers delivered another outstanding performance. The popular bluegrass group provided the perfect soundtrack for a day centered on tradition and fellowship.
Now in its 118th year, the Lone Oak Picnic remains one of Montgomery County’s oldest and most beloved annual events. For generations, families have made the trip to Cunningham to enjoy the famous barbecue, reconnect with friends and neighbors, and celebrate the community spirit that has defined the picnic for well over a century.
Central Civitan President Leo Adames said he was thrilled with the turnout despite the rainy weather.
“The turnout has been fantastic, especially considering the rain. It really feels like a county fair out here. I love seeing people come together, enjoy themselves, and support this tradition.”
One of the many highlights of this year’s 118th Annual Lone Oak Picnic was the annual classic car show, where a variety of beautifully restored and well-maintained vehicles lined the grounds, giving visitors another reason to spend the day enjoying one of Montgomery County’s favorite summer traditions.
Taking home Top Honors at this year’s car show were Micah and Stephanie Herndon, whose stunning 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle impressed judges with its outstanding presentation and classic muscle car appeal.
While election season brought candidates to the stage, the day’s focus remained on the community itself. Families visited with neighbors, children enjoyed the festivities, and the aroma of slow-smoked barbecue filled the air as volunteers kept serving lines moving throughout the afternoon.
The annual picnic continues to be a celebration of the values that have defined the Cunningham community for generations—service, fellowship, hospitality, and neighbors helping neighbors. Whether visitors came for the barbecue, the music, the political speeches, or simply to spend time with family and friends, the event once again demonstrated why it has remained a summertime tradition for 118 years.
As another successful Lone Oak Picnic came to a close, Adams expressed his appreciation to everyone who supported the event despite the less-than-perfect weather.
“I appreciate everyone who came out, even with the rain. It took some determination, and I love seeing that kind of community spirit. It’s people like this who keep the Lone Oak Picnic tradition alive, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back next year.”
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