An annual event that started as an opportunity to lift the “mystique” around one of Carrollton’s biggest employers has set its 2012 date for Oct. 6.

Southwire Company’s Community Day — started in the mid-2000s — will give residents an opportunity to recycle used electronics, check out some classic cars, participate in a 5K run and enjoy a free concert with country artist Ashton Sheppard, best known for the country hit “Look It Up.”

“This gives our local residents a unique look at what Southwire does,” said Gary Leftwich, spokesman for Southwire. “Before we started this several years ago, there was a mystique around us, so people didn’t really understand what we did. We had walls around us, and very few people got to see inside those walls.”

Beyond the car show, electronic recycling, free concert and 5K, the daylong event will include plant tours and family activities centered on Southwire’s Living Well program.

Ashton Sheppard will take the stage at the AMP at Adamson Square at 7 p.m. that Saturday night, after a performance by local talent Homegrown at 6:15 p.m. Tickets are not required for the show, and attendance is free.

“We’re going to have great music and a lot of fun,” Leftwich said.

The 5K is planned to kick off the day, with an 8 a.m. start. Registration starts at 7 a.m. in the Southwire corporate parking lot off Dixie Street. Registration is $15, and all participants will receive a free T-shirt. All proceeds benefit Carroll County Soup Kitchen, and checks should be made to the soup kitchen.

Also in the corporate parking lot from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. is the company’s semi-annual electronics recycling event. Attendees can drop off used or unwanted electronics to be recycled, such as computers, televisions, radios and cameras, as well as small appliances.

The electronics recycling program, part of Southwire’s effort to “go green,” is done in partnership with Keep Carroll Beautiful.

The Southwire Show-n-Shine car and bike show will run from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Bradley Street across from City Hall. Winners will be chosen by people’s choice with the top 10 cars and top five bikes honored. Registration is $15 per vehicle, with proceeds going to the soup kitchen as well.

To register for the car show, please call 770-832-4735.

Leftwich said vans would be going from the square to the Southwire facility all day to give tours to interested attendees.

“This is an opportunity for them to get an up-close look at our operations and learn more about our company,” Leftwich said. “At the same time, those attending will be able to enjoy the charm and history of the downtown area.”

Also in downtown Carrollton, Southwire will host activities for the entire family, including a rock climbing wall and an inflatable obstacle course.

For more information on Community Day or any of the activities, call 770-832-4735.