ST. MARYS, Ohio (WLIO) — St. Marys SummerFest kicked of Thursday with plenty of activities for the whole family.
The annual festival runs through Sunday night, with activities taking place throughout the weekend. Local businesses are also getting involved, with downtown sidewalk sales, art shows and book sales. Families can take part in free kids games, pickleball tournaments and tractor pulls.
This year's festival also includes several events celebrating America's 250th birthday, including an apple pie bake-off, a Declaration reading and American heritage trivia. Kimmer Wale has been involved with SummerFest since 1982. He says the work that goes into the festival is worth it when people come together and make memories.
"It's about people getting together to give back to the community, to have three days before the end of summer and have some fun with their kids and make memories. That's what we've always taught, it's memories. I mean, I've got all them years of memories, I've got a lot and I still make new ones."
Tonight, live music at the Nidec Minster Grand Pavilion includes the St. Marys Area Community Band from 7 to 8 p.m., followed by "Chicago" tribute band Cincinnati Transit Authority until 9:30 p.m.
Friday, the Wayne Street Church Cake and Bake Wheel runs from 5 to 11 p.m., with Haywired taking the stage from 8 to 11 p.m.
Saturday, the SummerFest parade starts at 4:30 p.m., with live entertainment throughout the evening and fireworks at 10 p.m.
Sunday, families can enjoy a free Kids Zone from 1 to 3 p.m., followed by a dance and bubble party from 3 to 6 p.m.
For more information on events happening this weekend, visit the SummerFest website.
