This raccoon doesn’t seem worried about being hunted as he watches Coon Dog Day activities from his perch atop several hound dogs. Despite soaring temperatures and high humidity, the streets of downtown Saluda were packed Saturday, July 9 for the 48th annual festival. The day started off at 8 a.m. with the Coon Dog Day 5K run, continued with a parade at 11 a.m. and the coon dog competition in the early afternoon, sponsored by the Central Carolina Benefit Coon Club. Live music entertained the crowd throughout the day, including bands such as The Green River Boys, Flaco & Ze Clownettes and McGuire’s Pipe Band. The Lonesome Road Band provided music for the annual community street dance in the evening, with square dances called by local Archie Hardy. (photo by Leah Justice)