Scotty Philip Days

PHILIP, S.D. – Four days of activities are set to begin Thursday, August 6th when Scotty Philip Days gets underway here. The line-up of events are all free to the hundreds of people who attend every year, growing the community’s population over two-fold. “Red, White & Rural” is this year’s theme. Tricia Burns is the president of the Board of Directors for the Chamber of Commerce.

“We are so excited. We decided to continue on with America’s 250th birthday by paying tribute to our great country by celebrating our community in the same fashion.”

Thursday begins with a “Cowpoke Cool Down” for the kids , followed by a Chuckwagon Supper, Trivia contests for all ages and Karaoke. On Friday, Aug. 7, there is a free movie showing at the Gem Theater, a mini-demolition derby, Ice Cream Social, Ride ‘em & Slide ‘em, the Human Slot Machine, all with a street dance to follow.

The inaugural Scotty Philip Days has become a ‘must-attend’ tradition for folks not only from Philip, S.D., but from surrounding counties, from across the U.S., and as far away as Scotland. (SDPB)

“We have families from all the surrounding counties come to celebrate with us – as well as visitors from all over the United States,” said Burns. “And we’re honored every year to welcome descendants of the town’s namesake, Scotty Philip, join us from as far away as Scotland. So we’re excited. We love to see everyone coming back and sharing the love of our community with us.”

Saturday, August 8th features everything from a 5K Run & Walk, the Scotty Philip Days Parade with the theme “Red, White & Rural” (entries remain open through Friday) to a Car Show, a Kids Tractor Pull Tournament, another free movie, the Philip Volunteer Fire Department Demolition Derby and more. Wrapping up the popular four-day event on Sunday, August 9th, is the annual Spud Gittings Golf Tournament.

“There’s something for everyone,” observes Burns. “We try really hard to ensure that everybody in the entire family, from Grandma and Grandpa to the little kids and toddlers can come into town and have a great time.”

Burns gives the credit for the popular event to members of the Chamber of Commerce and volunteers, who every year, make it possible for so many free events to be offered. “I know I’m biased, but we really do have the best Chamber of Commerce members and others in the community who make Philip the special place that it is.”

Find a complete schedule of events at the Philip Chamber of Commerce on Facebook.