DECATUR — Even though torrential rain put a damper on Friday’s Bulldog Days events, when the sun came out on Saturday, there were plenty of fun-filled family activities for the community to enjoy.

Severe storms followed by heavy rains on Thursday night and the early hours of Friday morning left rivers of water running across Veterans Park, where parking and vendor areas had been planned.

Because of the weather, officials decided to cancel the activities planned for Friday morning and afternoon and play the rest of the weekend by ear.

Saturday dawned clear but chilly. The day began with a tap and ballet performance from the Dazzle’em Dance Studio students, followed by a performance from the Decatur High School Dance team.

The Decatur Fire Department served hot chocolate, coffee and cinnamon rolls, along with soda, to help warm up festival goers. A variety of vendors set up their booths in the park.

Mike Chase and the Extreme Dance Team provided music and emceed for the car show. Reigning Arkansas Princess Bryce Bennett sang at noon.

Carnival rides entertained children and teenagers all afternoon and evening. Many carnival riders came prepared with muck boots to keep their feet dry on the rain soaked ground.

Children enjoyed camel rides from the Wild Wilderness Safari and face painting and balloons from Decatur High School.

The evening began with a concert from country singer Meagan White, followed by entertainment by the Hispanic DJ.

Community members enjoyed the carnival late into the night on Saturday.

Planning for next year’s Bulldog Days will begin at the Nov. 2 meeting of the Parks and Recreation Committee, which will be held at the 5:30 p.m. at the Gallery Cafe. Liaison Trip Lapham is inviting all community members interested in helping with Bulldog Days and the other Parks and Recreation Committee activities to join the committee.

News, Pages 1 on 10/14/2009