Each September, families in Deep River have gathered to celebrate their community through Deep River Family Day. This year’s Family Day on Saturday, Sept. 21 marks the 25th anniversary of the event, and its organizers have stepped up to make the day memorable.

“This is our chance to say thank you and to give back to the families and residents who support us and in doing so help the Deep River community to continue to grow and thrive,” said Stacie DiNello, president of the Deep River Merchants Association. “In celebration of the 25th anniversary, we wanted to make this day extra special and we encourage everyone to come out, participate, enjoy, and have a great time.”

The day’s events are put on by the Deep River Merchant’s Association in conjunction with the town’s Parks & Recreation Department. It’s always a crowd favorite and a special way for locals to say goodbye to summer and hello to autumn while connecting with one another and celebrating.

Per tradition, the day kicks off with the annual 5k run. This year the run is being called the Run to River to recognize the role the Connecticut River. The race will follow the same route as in the past starting and ending at Devitt Field, with the river as a midpoint. Registration will begin at 7:45 a.m. the race sets off at 9 a.m. The one-mile fun run will set off at 8:15 a.m.

The annual carnival will start at Deep River Elementary School at 11 a.m. and run until 3 p.m. with bouncy houses, a bungee run, and more. Hot dogs and drinks will be available at the Town Hall from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and wagon rides down main street will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., visitors can stop by the Historical Society and check out something new: the Orphan Car Show, which will highlight cars from manufactures that no longer exist. Or they can visit the Veterans Memorial Green to see a live birds of Prey presentation at 11 a.m. put on by the Connecticut Audubon Society.

As always, the shops, restaurants, and other businesses throughout town will be offer specials, discounts, and raffles. There will also be music throughout the day offered by several different bands and performers including Roma, a band composed of local youth. There of course will be the famed pet parade down Main Street at 3:30 p.m. Those who wish to participate should meet at the library at 3 p.m.

Wrapping up the day’s events, fireworks will begin at 8:30 p.m. at Plattwood Park. Attendees can park at John Winthrop Middle School and take a free shuttle to the park, where the Chester Lion’s club will serve food at the Snack Shack.

For more information, visit the Deep River Merchants website www.deeprivermerchants.com.