With the advent of COVID-19 many events people look forward to every year have been postponed or even canceled, including many festivals.
But a few have decided to hold on and celebrate anyhow. And one of those is the the annual Columbia Fire Co. Firemen’s Fair and July 4 parade in Osceola Mills.
A press release published on their Facebook page noted that during their regular bi-monthly meetings and special meetings in recent months the fate of the festival was discussed.
There will be changes to how the fair is operated this year, and the fire company noted that some things will not take place. However, everyone is still encouraged to attend through the week and especially to come and view the parade on July 4.
The festival will begin with a soft opening Sunday night at 6 p.m. and run through July 4. Social distancing is encouraged and masks when practical.
There will be hand sanitizing stations throughout the carnival. Those attending bingo are encouraged to bring their own daubers and reusable cards will not be used this year.
Normally the event would begin Sunday with a car show, however that was canceled this year. There will also not be any rides this year.
There will be food vendors, games, bingo, a Chinese auction and more. The fair opens at 6 p.m. each evening
On Tuesday at 8 p.m. there will be entertainment by DJ Ram with Rich Harvey.
Wednesday is Kids Day and everything will open up for families at 4 p.m.
Thursday at 7 p.m. there will be a live performance by Roadkill.
On Friday from 8-11 p.m. a live performance by Trudy and the Trashers will be featured.
The week culminates with the parade, which steps off at 11 a.m. and winds through the borough. While there will be no bands marching this year, there will still be plenty to see, and candy thrown.
This year’s grand marshals will be the 2020 senior class of Philipsburg-Osceola School District. The senior classes from West Brand and Moshannon Valley will also be marching in the parade.
Those attending the parade are encouraged to wear face masks and keep to their family/friend groups. Those tossing candy will be required to wear both masks and gloves.
Following the parade, the carnival will open. At 9 p.m. the fireworks show will start, and at 11:55 the raffle prizes will be drawn.
The top raffle prize is $10,000 followed by $500, two prizes of $200, $100 and gift certificates to five local businesses: The Osceola Hotel, Brother’s Pizza, The Rendezvous, Lorie’s Beauty Salon and Demchak Hardware.
