Highland Rim Kiwanis are encouraging children to get a little dirt on their boots Sept. 19 as they present the inaugural Dig Day on 41A – a chance for little kids and big kids alike to get up close and personal with some big machinery.

“This is a rare chance for children to sit in the driver’s seat of a fire truck, explore a police cruiser, operate the controls of a giant excavator, safely of course, and gain a whole new appreciation for the people and machines that build and protect our community,” said Max Christopher, who will host the big event on the grounds of Christopher Equipment at 107 Ledford Mill Road in Tullahoma.

There will be a wide-array of heavy equipment and dirt moving machines, some will be hands on while others will be for close-up display.

The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 19 with the rain day, should there be heavy storms on Saturday, to be held Sunday, Sept. 20. And, thanks to the generous sponsors, the event is absolutely free. Kiwanis of Highland Rim’s mission is to serve the children of the community, something the educational and fun opportunity at Dig Day does.

“This is a free, familyfriendly event,” said Kiwanis President-Elect Greg Gressel. “Bring the kids out for an exciting adventure where they can explore and learn about the vehicles and equipment that keep our community safe and running strong every day.”

Parking for the event will be at the supplemental lot at Lowe’s (furthest from the store) which is located next door to the event. Children and their families will be taken to the grounds via trolley or other vehicles. Attendees can drop in at any time as tickets are not necessary. The event is geared toward children but “big kids” are also welcome.

Local businesses and individuals can help the cause by becoming a sponsor of the event to help offset the expenses of putting on the free community event. Those who formerly supported the 41A Music Festival are encouraged to help with Dig Day on 41A. Those who want to get involved can call Joe Orr at 247-5056 or John McCord at 247-5223.

More specifics about the awesome machines that will be at the event will be revealed closer to the event.