Rock Bridge Canyon’s next big event will honor its director.

The community is invited to turn out for Mike’s Birthday Bash Aug. 20 at Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park, in honor of Director Mike Franklin. The all-day event will offer a variety of activities to attract canyon-goers.

A self-guided trail ride will be open throughout the day for $15 per rider. In addition to the beauty of the canyon, this ride will have something special to offer, according to manager Jenny Harris.

“We’re going to hide horseshoes out on the trails, and you bring them back to the office, and you get prizes,” Harris said. She got the idea from another camp, and she said it should be a lot of fun. “I thought, ‘Well, we’ll do that here.’ It’s like a scavenger hunt.”

As the day winds down into evening, everyone is invited to purchase something from the concession stands, which will open at 5 p.m. and serve nachos, hamburgers, hotdogs, barbecue sandwiches and barbecue nachos, steak sandwiches, drinks and chips, among other edibles. Also for sale will be chances on an Old Henry Lever Action 22 long rifle, donated by Alabama Title and Pawn in Haleyville. Chances cost $5 or 5/$20, Harris said, and the given will be given away Sept. 10 at the park’s Old West Ride.

At 6 p.m., sign-ups will open for the 7 p.m. Cowboy Mounted Shoot.

“It is a timed event where cowboys and cowgirls run a course and shoot balloons to see who can do it the fastest,” Harris said. “It’s very entertaining.” The last mounted shoot hosted by RBCEP attracted 25 shooters. There will be no admission charge for the shoot, but attendees are encouraged to support the concession stand, Harris said.

AT the conclusion of the mounted shoot, about 9:30 p.m., the birthday party begins. RBCEP will offer cake, homemade ice cream, watermelon and sweet tea while easy listening band The Shadows plays a little dancing music. The party, Harris said, is expected to continue through to midnight.

For more information call 205-935-3499 or visit the park’s Facebook page.