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While the weather residents of the Tri-State Area have been experiencing during the past few weeks has been cooler and wetter than normal, a look at the calendar offers a reminder that it's time to start enjoying area outdoor events and festivals.
Among the first of those arrives this week, when Wednesdays in Wintersville returns for its third year.
Held on the first Wednesday of every month, the event, which will run monthly through September, brings the village to life with a wide variety of activities. The lineup will include numerous vendors, food trucks, games for children and live entertainment.
The Farmers Gateway Market, which is presented weekly by the Jefferson Soil and Water Conservation District, will return to the parking lot of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church on every Wednesday beginning June 14 and running through Oct. 4.
There will be a different feel this year, with the event being centered on the parking lot near the Village Building, though activities for children and a few booths will be found in front of the Center for Hope at Wintersville Methodist Church.
Each month will feature a different theme, with Wednesday's opener built around "Mardi Gras." Scheduled to run from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., there will be a pet costume parade, a contest that will invite attendees to solve a mystery, a chance to hear locals play the piano, music by Matt Hill and Friends, a display of the works of artist Thomas Orr and the chance to meet animals from the Jefferson County Humane Society who are looking for homes.
Helping to support the event is sponsor Valvoline Express Care and owners Tom and Sara Gentile. Steel Valley Regional Transit Authority will be providing transportation each month.
Mary Decker of Valley Wine Cellar and Joel John of Exquisite Creations by Joel and a dedicated group of volunteers helped to establish the monthly event a couple of years ago to bring attention to local businesses. It has quickly grown to become a must-attend addition to the calendar for many residents of the area.
The five-month series will continue June 7 with the theme of "Summer Love;" July 5 with the theme of "Hoedown;" Aug. 2 with the theme "Carnival;" and conclude Sept. 6 with the theme of "Homecoming."
Wednesdays in Wintersville offers the chance to relax and unwind on a spring or summer evening, spend some quality time with family members, enjoy the company of friends and neighbors and celebrate everything that is good about our region.
Make plans to attend and continue to support our local communities.