A different kind of Thanksgiving tradition
Thanksgiving is a day for families to get together around a dinner table and give thanks. People celebrate the day in many ways – but for some Genesee County natives, their celebration is a little different. As early as 8 a.m., trucks, jeeps, and other off-road vehicles gather for Thanksgiving at the Mounds Off Road Vehicle Park to drive through an array of terrain from rock climbs to mud bogs.
"It's a tradition, like the Lion's game or going to grandma's house," says Parks Operation Manager, Garry Pringle. "I get the pleasure of arriving at the park at 5 a.m., and last year there was someone waiting there to be first in line."
Although the park is open all year long, there is something special about going mudding on Thanksgiving morning according to the regulars.
"It's the busiest day of the year for the mounds," says Pringle. "Usually between 600 – 800 vehicles visit the park throughout the day."
As part of the festivities, What Lies Beyond Jeep Club will be hosting it’s 9th Annual Wheeling Against Hunger Donation Drive to benefit the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. The club will be accepting non-perishable food and monetary donations during the day. You can also enjoy a hot coffee or cocoa in the warming tent located in the parking lot.
The Mounds ORV Park is open on Thanksgiving from 8 a.m. until sunset. Regular fees and rules apply. For more information, check out their website at themounds.org.
Looking for more to do in Flint & Genesee? Check out our events calendar.