The birthplace of Memorial Day kicked off its 27th annual Celebrate Commemorate festival on Friday night
With the forecast calling for a soaking rain on Saturday, Sarah Smolinski emphasized that the only thing that could cancel any event in Waterloo is lightning — everything else, including the parade and craft fair, will proceed regardless of weather. Attendees are encouraged to bring rain gear just in case.
Saturday’s highlights include the Celebrate Commemorate parade at 11 a.m. sharp, a 5K run starting at Waterloo High School, and fireworks over Oak Island at 9:30 p.m. — what Smolinski described as one of the best fireworks shows in the region. Finger Lakes Daily News will be broadcasting live from the corner of the park Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Entertainment throughout the weekend includes The Hitmen, Marine Mischief on Oak Island, Shelly Major, the Jesse Novak Band, and a new jazz act. Civil War reenactors will be active on Oak Island, with musket-firing demonstrations and historical programming. Abraham Lincoln will make appearances on the grounds, on boat tours, and aboard the train this year, though Teddy Roosevelt won’t be attending — reportedly on a cruise.
Sunday features the car show, expected to draw more than 300 vehicles. This year’s show will include a special memorial display for Walt Young, a longtime car show participant who passed away earlier this year, with his vehicles on display alongside his photo.
Other activities include a Kids Corner with a petting zoo and bubble demonstrations, and a Cornell Cooperative Extension tent in the Vendor Village hosting the Junior Iron Chef competition on Sunday.
For a full schedule and event details, click here
