A hometown parade, musical entertainment, children's activities, fireworks, Victorian dancing and a display of fine art and crafts are just some of the activities that will be featured during the Parkesburg Sesquicentennial Celebration set for Friday to Sunday, May 20 to 22. Plans for the 150th anniversary celebration were unveiled during a "Big Reveal Party" held on Feb. 9 via Zoom.

The Zoom presentation was narrated by Kathleen Hood, a member of the Parkesburg Sesquicentennial planning committee. Other committee members were also on hand to explain various aspects of the celebration.

The program began with a greeting by Parkesburg Mayor John Hagan, followed by an introduction of all of the committee members. "(Local historian) Gerry Treadway brought the attention of the anniversary to the Parkesburg Historical Commission," explained committee member Cathleen Wilde Christ. "Since then, a committee has been formed and we are thrilled to share the details for the three-day celebration with you all tonight."

Hood explained that the anniversary marks the incorporation of the borough of Parkesburg, which was originally known as Fountain Inn, named after a tavern, built in 1734. "Originally settled by the Scotch-Irish immigrants in the 1700s, Parkesburg began as a small farming community and grew up around the Fountain Inn that was a stopping point for those traveling between Lancaster and Philadelphia," she said.

Hood then listed specific activities that will take place during the celebration. "On May 20, various businesses on Main Street will open their doors, and inside each building there will be crafters, a musician or an artist," she explained. Other events that day will include walking historic tours and hayrides. A Civil War dance ensemble will demonstrate and teach Victorian dancing.

The day will also include the crowning of a sesquicentennial queen, king and court. "In 1972, 50 years ago when we celebrated the centennial, my cousin Sharon Wilde Reinart was crowned the centennial queen," Christ explained. "Sharon will crown the new king and queen on Main Street." Parkesburg youths ages 16 to 19 are eligible to apply.

A historic children's carnival will be featured on Saturday, May 21, as well as a display of antique vehicles. Musical entertainment will be provided by groups such as the Lukens Band and the New Individuals. Hood also provided a list of food trucks and restaurants that will offer food, beverages and snacks throughout the event.

A parade will be held on May 22. There will be various judging categories such as best float, band and vehicle and one overall best entry. Prizes will be awarded.

May 22 will include a memorial service at Parkesburg Borough Hall and a community worship service in Minch Park. There will also be a picnic in the park and performances by the Chester County Concert Band and the Chester County Emerald Society Pipe Band.

For more information and a schedule of events, visit https://parkesburgsesquice.wixsite.com/event. A recording of the "Big Reveal Party" is available at http://www.facebook.com/ParkesburgSesquicentennial.