Woolwich Day, a community-wide celebration featuring a chicken barbecue, art and crafts, kids’ activities and more returns from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, Aug. 4 at Nequasset Park behind the town office.

New this year is the Nequasset Paddle for kayakers and canoeists. The race starts at 9 a.m. at the boat launch off Old Stage Road with registration from 8 to 8:30 a.m. The entry fee is $10; rules and age restrictions apply.

The course is the full length of Nequasset Lake and ends at the town’s boat launch. The Woolwich Special Events Committee is sponsoring the race that includes cash prizes in three categories. No shuttle services will be provided at the finish; participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation back to the launch site.

The celebration kicks off Friday, Aug. 3 with the annual chicken barbecue dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. at the fire station. Tickets can be bought at the door. Proceeds benefit the fire department and recreation committee.

Saturday’s activities on the grounds surrounding the town office begin at 9 a.m. The Woolwich Historical Society again opens the doors of its 19th century farmhouse museum and barn, offering free tours. Visitors can see Native American artifacts, a 19th century kitchen, handmade quilts, spinning wheels, antique farm tools, Civil War items and more.

The historical society will also host a huge book sale on the lawn.

At 10 a.m., Rev. Dr. Alan Baughcum of Day’s Ferry Congregational Church will conduct his traditional “Blessing of the Animals” service on the lawn of Nequasset Meeting House across from the fire station.

Antique cars and trucks will be on display on the meeting house lawn from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The bounce house returns for kids to enjoy along with something new ­– a kids’ obstacle course. Woolwich’s Junior Firefighters will be hosting other children’s activities.

There will be lots of food to enjoy including baked goods, Hennin’s homemade ice cream, fresh-squeezed lemonade and free cotton candy for the kids.

Local artisans will be selling arts and crafts and a silent auction is planned with prizes raffled every half hour.

Selectmen Jason Shaw and Allen Greene will man the grill cooking hot dogs and hamburgers for sale.

Serving as master of ceremonies for the day are George and Lynette Eastman. Lynette is a former town administrator.

There’s no admission charge and you don’t have to be a Woolwich resident to attend.