MIDDLETOWN >> For many, Middletown Days is a tradition. Some people get up early every year to put out their chairs for the parade and then head down to Central Park to watch the award presentation, or to visit their favorite vendors. Some spend weeks dreaming up and creating their entry for the parade year-after-year. Some folks spend countless hours training to compete in the gymkhana in the hopes of winning a buckle and bragging rights. Still, others look forward to dancing under the stars at night with their friends. This weekend, many will have the opportunity.
The parade begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 17 and the theme is Shades of the Old West. It starts at Perry’s Deli and runs North to TriCounties Bank at Armstrong Street. The announcer’s booth will once again be set up in front of Mt. Saint Helena Brewery. There are 30 categories to choose from and the winner in each category will receive a trophy. Rules and entry forms can be found at http://www.middletowndays.org/.
In addition to all the other activities, this year a trivia scavenger hunt has been added. See any member of the Middletown Area Merchant Association (MAMA) to get the trivia questions about the history of Middletown Days. Visit select MAMA merchants to get the answers and then turn in your completed sheet at Central Park to be entered into a drawing for a prize.
Saturday Events: Live music with the Bad Neighbors Band, various food, and merchandise vendors, Parade Awards, BBQ, Kid’s Play Day, Jr. Rodeo and Dance Under the Stars with the Dave Russell Band ($10 per person for dance tickets dance begins at 9 p.m.).
Sunday Events: Live music with the Bad Neighbors Band, various food and merchandise vendors, Lioness Father’s Day Breakfast, Cowboy Church, Safety Sunday, Bloody Mary Horseshoe 50/50 Tournament, Chili Cook Off, Gymkhana, Rescue Race & Hide Ride, and the Queen’s Beef Raffle.
Details and schedule of events can be found in the free Middletown Day’s Program Friday, June 17 at the Middletown Hardester’s Market and TriCounties Bank; and on the day of the parade at various locations around town.
