SR festivals team up to make bigger event
SLIPPERY ROCK — The ninth annual Slippery Rock VillageFest on Saturday is looking to be larger than usual.
Tom McPherson, VillageFest coordinator, said this is because VillageFest is partnering with the annual Heritage Festival, which is sponsored by the Slippery Rock Heritage Association.
“So, we have a couple of extra events this time,” McPherson said. “We've got a lot planned.”
• A car cruise will extend to the parking lot of Center Presbyterian Church and will start at 10 a.m.
• Slippery Rock Parks and Recreation is sponsoring a 5K run.
• Main Street will be filled with food and vendors.
• The heritage association will sponsor the 25th Heritage Festival Memory Lane, which celebrates the history of the Slippery Rock area.
• The Slippery Rock Volunteer Fire Department will host a chicken barbecue at the fire hall at 11 a.m.
• Slippery Rock Veterinarian Hospital will sponsor a pet parade behind the First National Bank building.
• A children's area will be set up at Gateway Park, featuring rides, balloon sculpting and games.
• Armstrong will sponsor an appearance from SpongeBob SquarePants.
Additionally, McPherson said there will be more rides for children.
With all of the events going on, McPherson said the only additional ingredient required is good weather.
“We just need a sunny, nice day,” he said.
Main Street will be closed between Franklin/New Castle Street and Cooper Street. The parking lot between Main and Elm Streets will be closed since it will have activities. Parking will not be permitted on Elm and Maple streets.
A shuttle will be running to transport guests from a few of the lower parking lots on Slippery Rock University's campus and VillageFest.
The event also is held in conjunction with SRU's Family and Friends Weekend.
VillageFest is presented by North Country Brewery and Butler Health System. For information and a schedule of events, visit www.slipperyrockpa.org.
