Carrollwood to Celebrate National Toasted Marshmallow Day

Though the exact origins of the holiday are unknown, Tuesday, Aug. 30 has been declared National Toasted Marshmallow Day, and Carrollwood locals think it’s time to start celebrating.

When Jeanene Arrington, owner and lead guide of Not a Clue Adventures (a local outfitter and guide service for camping and hiking trips) heard about the National holiday, she thought it would be the perfect reason for a neighborhood gathering.

“This is a fun way to say goodbye to the hot days of summer and look forward to the campfires of fall," says Arrington. 

As a local Carrollwood resident and member of the Carrollwood Cultural Center, Arrington decided to see if they would co-sponsor the event.  When the Cultural Center heard of Arrington’s plan, they were on board.

“Our hope is that residents in the surrounding areas will come out to celebrate the day, and toast a marshmallow together," says Adrienne Hutelmyer, Marketing and Communications director of the Carrollwood Cultural Center.

The event will be held at the area between the Carrollwood Cultural Center and the soccer fields on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m.  Admission is free, and each attendee will get two marshmallows to toast on the campfire (children must be accompanied by an adult).

In addition to toasting marshmallows, there will be several other things to enjoy. 

Not a Clue Adventures will have a sample campsite set up with information on camping and hiking activities. 

Ellie Willingham of Willingham's Taxidermy will have hands-on exhibits, including skulls and furs, to educate kids on some of the animals they share the outdoors with. 

Phil Waters with Gatorguides.com will bring out an alligator pelt and a representative from the Carrollwood Cultural Center will be on hand to talk about fall programs. 

There will also be some things for parents to enjoy, too. Terri Willingham from Learning is for Everyone will be onsite offering parents connections to assist in teaching their kids outside of the classroom.

Besides a few gooey marshmallows to munch on, attendees can find yummy treats at Lesa Marie Tropical Treats for You, and can stop by the Kona Ice truck for a cool refreshment.

For more information, visit the event on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=216825031702099. Or, call the cultural center at 813-269-1310.