Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking River Cruises, says in a recent TV commercial, “Welcome back to the world.”

We take that to heart as COVID-19 wanes, as events start to happen again and, after a two-year hiatus, the beloved Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival returns to Butler County this Friday, with a big Jeep Parade and Invasion on Main Street in Butler beginning at 4 p.m.

Food, fun and festivities greet visitors to Cooper’s Lake Campground, located at 205 Currie Road in Slippery Rock, beginning Friday at 9 a.m. and continuing through Sunday, with a host of Jeep-related events, activities and displays.

Best of all, the festival is great for the many retailers and other businesses that will benefit from the return of the event.

Today, the Butler Eagle published the festival guide.

Starting this Friday, friendships will be built, memories made and smiles displayed. It has become more than just a festival. It’s a place where people get along. It’s time to let loose and put the worries of the day behind.

The 10th anniversary celebration this year will encapsulate it all, celebrating the memories of Bantam Festivals gone by and anticipating an incredible future. Be sure to check out Sandy Olanyk’s 15-foot-long quilt assembled with the many years of festival T-shirts, on display at the festival. But the event also includes unique and award-winning Jeeps, new trails and heritage activities.

Event organizers say there is something for everyone, whether it’s the snarliest trail or the smoothest asphalt. For Austin Fitch, it’s the rough and tumble off-roading that gets his adrenaline pumping.

“Honestly, just going out and having a blast every year on the trails and playground is worth it,” he said.

For others, the memories of quality time spent with family and friends have made it special throughout the years.

— AA