Dozens of families made their way out to Fort McAllister State Historic Park on Saturday to visit with Civil War soldiers, tour the fort and enjoy various family activities during the third annual Labor Day Family Festival.

The event was sponsored by Friends of Fort McAllister, a volunteer group that helps with special events like this one, and provides assistance with maintenance and improvement projects at the fort.

Event chair Ryan Strickland deemed the event a success, and noted he was thankful for all the community members who came out to the event.

"Compared to last year, there have been a few more people come through the door (this year)," he said. "The weather is nice, with all the rain we lucked up with some beautiful weather today."

Parents munched on hot dogs, hamburgers and other snacks while children ran about enjoying water slides and bounce houses. Students from Richmond Hill High School also helped children with arts and crafts projects and offered a face painting booth.

Civility Bowling said she and her family came to the event because of the family friendly atmosphere.

"It’s a good family event—it is a safe environment and has wide open spaces," she said.

Read full story in Sept. 5 issue of Bryan County News.