Hunting, fishing celebration coming to Ridge

Face-painting, taxidermy, historical re-enactments, falconry lessons — there’s apparently something for everyone at the Suffolk Alliance of Sportsmen’s celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Day in Ridge.

The free event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, rain or shine, at the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s hunter check station on Randall Road.

Launched in 1972, the day is intended to thank hunters and anglers for their role in increasing environmental awareness and conservation of land and forests, according to the DEC. Money from state hunting and fishing licenses supports the agency’s activities.

“Hunting and fishing are an important part of Long Island’s heritage, and we are very fortunate that our region offers a multitude of diverse and rewarding recreational opportunities,” DEC regional director Peter Scully said in a statement.

This year the event will feature new “child-focused” activities, such as a kids fishing derby, pony rides, pumpkins, balloons and archery lessons. Other offerings include a horse show, bait and fly casting demonstrations, a Rough Riders Cavalry Troop re-enactment and hunting and retrieving dog demonstrations. For more information call 631-744-1689. On the day of show, call 516-456-7615 or 631-974-3125.