Peony Fest events coming up in June

Peony Festival news

It’s almost time for the Peony Festival and the Peony Festival Committee has some old favorites and a couple of new ideas to share with the public this year. Join committee members from Friday, June 7 through Sunday, June 9, for some great fun.

On Friday, polish up that ride and show it off in the Peony Festival Car show (sponsored by Wetzel Motorcycle Club). Registration starts at 4 p.m., and the show begins at 6 that evening. Enjoy great food, prizes, and music by Phil Dirt and the Dozers (courtesy of The Van Wert County Foundation).

Also on Friday, the Peony Prince and Princess contest will be held in the S.F. Goedde Building on West Crawford Street.  Bring the little ones in their Sunday best to see who this year’s princes and princesses will be.

A new attraction this year is the Water Walker by BandA Amusements, which invites people to come try walking on water. And, of course, Fountain Park will be filled with artists and crafters from all over. Come and take a look at what they have to offer.

On Saturday, make sure to check out the Fishing Derby (sponsored by Thatcher Insurance) at Camp Clay on Richey Road. Let the kids have fun fishing and possibly win great prizes. After fishing, head on back up to Fountain Park for the Duck Pond game; for 25 cents every try is a winner!  The Pet Show starts at 11 a.m. Saturday and offers cash prizes in six different categories. While the kids are fishing, try the 5K run/walk sponsored by the YMCA.

The inflatables are back this year, bigger and better than ever, and adults can enjoy the stage entertainment while the kids play in the bounce houses. This year there are three dance schools performing, and, at 12:30 p.m., the Michigan Soul Steppers will perform.

There will also be a tour of beautiful gardens to enjoy all Peony Festival weekend. More information on the garden tours and everything else will be found at the information tent at the corner of Jefferson and Main Streets.

Then get ready for the highlight of the festival as the Peony Grand Parade steps out onto Washington Street at 5 p.m. Saturday, with sights and sounds and excitement only a parade can muster.