Although it is only spring, plans for this summer’s Steubenville Hometown Celebration are well underway. The one day event on Saturday, June 20th is the finale for the community’s popular June festivals: Ohio Valley Frontier Days (June 6-7), Holy Trinity Greek Food Festival (June 16-19) and the Dean Martin Festival (June 18-20).
“We are planning to have an expanded event this year,” noted Judy Bratten, director of Historic Fort Steuben and the Steubenville/Jefferson County Visitor Center. “As in the past there will be activities at Fort Steuben Park: Trolley rides on Historic Fourth Street, mini train rides, Amazing Nick’s Balloon Art, Kurt James’ Fun n’ Games for the kids, and entertainment around the Veterans’ Memorial Fountain. But in addition there will be a Safety Rodeo on Market Street and the Dean Martin Classic Car Cruise In on S. 4th Street along with vendors and game booths. A Steubenville Murals Scavenger Hunt with a Hometown Celebration Basket as a prize will add to the fun.”
The day will begin with a Dino Dash – 5k run through the downtown – and a Pancake Breakfast at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, famed for its Tiffany stained glass windows. Visitors can enjoy Dean Martin Karaoke and entertainers at the Spot Bar, including a Rat Pack Show in the evening. Proceeds from the Dean Martin Festival go to music scholarships and the Tony Teramana Cancer Center.
The Grand Theater – still in the process of restoration – will have entertainment. The Jefferson County Historical Museum on Franklin Avenue will be open as well as the recently renovated Means House on North Street. Historic Fort Steuben will have reenactors demonstrating 18th century military drill and weaponry. Restaurants and shops will feature Hometown Celebration Specials and an Ohio Valley Talent Show will be held in the Berkman Amphitheater from 11 to 2. Among the Talent Show performers are Leah Bowman and The Allegheny Angels. Plans for a film fest and dance at Froehlich’s Classic Corner are also in the works.
“Music, comedy and crazy antics” are the specialty of oldies rock’n’roll band The Avalons who will be performing in the Berkman Amphitheater that evening at 6:30 pm. Tickets for that performance will be available at the door or in advance at the Visitor Center for $10 (adults) and $5 (6-12 yr. olds) and a portion of the proceeds will go towards supporting the educational programs at Historic Fort Steuben.
“This event would not be happening without the support of our major sponsors: WTOV9/Fox9, WMC’s All About Women, and Steubenville Electrical LMCC. We are grateful to Franciscan University of Steubenville for their donation toward the Performing Arts programs at the two high schools in honor of this celebration,” added Bratten. “It’s not too late to sign up to participate in this year’s festivities. There is plenty of space for more vendors and we invite organizations to set up game booths or information tables. Donor and sponsor packages are also available.”
For more information, call the Visitor Center at 740-283-4935.