Sun staff
The threat of severe weather was a cause for concern at this year’s June in Olde Williamsburgh Festival that ran from Friday May 31 through Sunday June 2. The crowd was noticeably smaller than usual, though many still came out to partake in the festivities.
“We didn’t have as big a crowd as we had hoped,” said village administrator Patti Bates. “We still had a good turnout though.”
Strong winds and heavy rain went through Williamsburg Friday evening, forcing the parade to be canceled. After the rain subsided, the festival continued as planned. Two bands, Kickstart and Acoustic Edge, performed for visitors. Vendors and food booths were open, as well as the Beer Garden and carnival.
The 5k run/walk “Run for the Funds” took place Saturday morning, as well as the 10k run for “Restore the Roar.” Overall 5k run winners were Ryan Cooper and Trisha Hiler, 5k walk winners were Steve Morehouse, and 10k winners were Philip Helbig and Kristy Collins.
The proceeds from the 5k run/walk went to scholarships given out to Shane Jeffers and Shannon Dewey, recent graduates of Williamsburg High School. They were both awarded $500 scholarships. Proceeds from the 10k run went to the Williamsburg High School Football Team.
KidsFest also took place on Saturday, beginning at noon and going until 3 p.m. Parents brought their kids to enjoy the carnival games and rides, free hot dogs, bouncy house, and pony rides. Fourteen-year-old magician, Dylan Calla, of Glen Este High School, performed for the kids on the main stage.
The Williamsburg High School Jazz Band performed Saturday night, along with 16-year-old Randy Stephens, winner of the high school talent show. Wendy Lee Oakley and the Posse also performed, as did Phoenix Band Cincinnati. Fireworks were also fired off Saturday night.
“We had excellent bands this year,” Bates said. “Saturday was a really nice day for us, even though the weather was a concern.”
The annual festival continued Sunday with music from Disc Jockey JD Richards, vendors and food booths, and the eighth annual car show. There were 48 cars at this year’s show.
“We appreciate everyone coming out, despite the weather,” Bates said. “We hope for better luck next time, but we still had a good year.”
Bates estimated the festival had around 1,500 to 2,000 visitors over the course of its three days. This is short of the usual estimated 3,000 visitors.
The June in Olde Williamsburgh Festival has become a tradition for the village after the bicentennial celebration in 1996.