Images of luscious, red strawberries are popping up all over the charming Village of Leonard. It can only mean one thing ? the 57th Annual Strawberry Festival is almost here!
The popular local festival returns to downtown Leonard Saturday, July 18.
Kick off an entire day of fun with a pancake breakfast at Leonard United Methodist Church from 8 until 10:30 a.m.
Head over to Rowland Hall on E. Elmwood Street between 8:30 and 11 a.m. to drop off your entry in the Strawberry Bake-off. Judging will take place at 11 a.m.
All entries must include strawberries, a copy of the recipe and contain no alcohol. No preserves or beverages are permitted in the contest. Limited refrigeration is available. The Bake-off will feature two categories ? youth ages 8-12 and adults ages 13 and older.
Set-up and registration for the Addison Twp. Lions Club car show in the Cooper Standard Automotive parking lot will begin at 9 a.m. The show will open at 10:30 a.m. and end at 4:30 p.m.
At 11 a.m., the Addison Twp. Firefighters Association will begin serving up strawberry (and chocolate) sundaes at the old Fire Hall on E. Elmwood St. The ice cream will continue to flow until 6 p.m.
The annual bike decorating contest will be judged at Leonard Elementary School at 11:30 a.m. Participating bikes get to ride in the parade.
Don’t miss the annual parade set to roll down E. Elmwood St. beginning at 12 noon sharp. This year’s Grand Marshals are longtime Leonard residents and former members of the fire department, Geno and Marlene Mallia. Special Persons are Edward Porter, Eleanor Hamilton, Marge McCallum, Ann Schlusler and Mary Sue Sutherby.
At 1 p.m, the train rides, giant slide and obstacle course will open. The fun will keep going until 5 p.m. when all the children’s activities close.
Stop by the Polly Ann Trail for mini golf and a petting zoo from Upland Hills Farm.
The Blackberry Creek Dancers are set to perform on E. Elmwood St. at 1:30 p.m.
Think you’re a card shark? Test your skills in a euchre tournament at Rowland Hall beginning at 2:30 p.m.
From 5-7 p.m., the band Tantrum will perform by the post office.
Just when you think it’s all over, that’s when the annual street dance kicks into high gear from 7-10 p.m.
Those who can’t wait for the fun on Saturday are invited to the Friday Night Kick-off event from 5-8 p.m. The kick-off will feature an old-fashioned pot luck dinner. Bring your own beverages and chairs.
Paper products will be provided.