MANY MUSICAL GUESTS — The Ron Retzer Trio was among many musical acts that entertained the many who attended the Gem City Wing Fest on Saturday. -- Warren Scott

TORONTO — For many years, a fireworks display on the Saturday close to Independence Day has been a holiday tradition for Toronto.

And often there have been special events or activities, from live musical performances to games for children, for residents and visitors to enjoy while waiting for the pyrotechnics.

With the exception of the Biasi-Shuma 5K Run, that had fallen off in recent years until this year when two local business owners teamed with many others to launch the Gem City Wing Fest.

Held along North Fourth Street from Market to Clark streets, the event started at 1 p.m. and offered live music, amusement rides and games for children and assorted vendors.

It was the brainchild of Phil Livingston, owner of Baby-Boyz BBQ; and Abby LeMasters, owner of Tri B’s Coffee Shop; with support from many sponsors and the involvement of other local businesses.

FAMILY FUN — A bounce house, amusement rides and carnival games were enjoyed by many children attending the Gem City Wing Fest on Saturday. -- Warren Scott

A car show coordinated by Jamie Cline of Cline’s Powder Coating drew more than 70 vehicles. Dash plaques went to owners of the first 30 vehicles and awards presented to the winners by Cline’s, Will’s Scrap and More and Josh Lewis in memory of his father, John.

Other businesses participated in various ways, from extending their Saturday hours to manning a booth at the festival.

For example, Images Styling Salon offered temporary tattoos, stickers and memorabilia in red, white and blue, while Realtor Mary Beth Freshwater hosted a face painting booth.

A wing contest coordinated by Livingston drew wing vendors from the city and beyond.

The winners were Def Louie’s of Toronto for the most exotic and Steel GOAT of Pittsburgh, which won trophies for both buffalo style and overall.

A stage on Market Street was occupied by a variety of entertainers, from local rock bands to Weird Eric, a magician who also created balloon animals for the many young attendees.

The activities for children drew high marks from many parents and grandparents on hand.

“I have my grandkids here to ride the rides,” said Michael Baker of Toronto, who said he was looking forward to the food and music.

Baker said since moving to the Gem City, he has found its residents to be very friendly.

“It’s small-town atmosphere is awesome,” he said.

Ron Rock of Wooster was among former Toronto residents returning home for the holiday and festival.

“I love it. I grew up here and lived here for 40 years and I think it’s great,” he said of the event.

Michelle Cox of Toronto said, “This is really nice. You get to see people you haven’t seen for a long time.”

Tyler Knowles of Toronto, who was watching his 8-year-old son enjoy one of the rides, said he hopes it will become an annual tradition.

“It’s something to look forward to, especially for the kids,” he said.

LeMasters and Livingston expressed thanks to the many who stepped forward as sponsors for the event in its first year.

In addition to Tri B’s and Baby-Boyz, sponsors for the festival included: PRC Sustainable Building Solutions, TEAM Ford Steubenville, Valley Converting, Cline’s Powder Coating, Knight Time Creations, Inspire Toronto, the City of Toronto, M&M Hardware, the Geddis family, JK Auto Glass, Jefferson County Cable, Glenn’s Grounds Crew, Squids Brewery, Realtor Paulette Lee Applegarth, Sam’s Club, Pro-X Pressure Washing, the Pup Stop, Aubrey Saner, Ohio Valley Restaurant Review, Paula and Mike Roche, the Wickham family and Nappie’s Food Service.