by Theresa Garee

Canal Winchester plans to kick off its 103rd year of Labor Day celebration, a three-day event beginning on Aug. 30 in the historic downtown area.

What makes this year different?

“Every year, our Labor Day Committee nominates and votes for deserving candidates to be the parade grand marshal. This year, we chose to honor the (Canal Winchester Area) Historical Society as they celebrate 50 years of local historical education and preservation,” said Parade Chair Marie Gibbons.

The event will take place over three days with each day offering different highlights.

Kids ride free noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Saturday will host a sensory inclusive hour with less lights and sounds from noon to 1 p.m.

Sunday will host a cruise-in which boasted over 200 antique, muscle and classic cars last year.

Monday will start with the historical parade with theme, “Remember the Past, Imagine the Future.”

“The Canal Winchester Labor Day Festival is celebrating over a century of family-friendly activities in our downtown during the Labor Day weekend. With so many food vendors, arts and craft vendors, rides, games, free entertainment, a car show, and our renowned parade, there is something sure to please everyone in the family,” said Carolyn Ebert of the Labor Day Festival Board.

Visitors can catch live music, like Old Skool and North to Nashville, on the Diley Ridge Main Stage.

“Diley Ridge Medical Center is proud to sponsor the Canal Winchester Labor Day Festival as part of our ongoing commitment to community engagement and wellness.  Festivals such as these allow for celebration of spirit, diversity, and resilience of our local residents.  By participating in local events that bring our community together, we strengthen the bonds that make Canal Winchester a vibrant and caring place to live and work,” said Diley Ridge Administrator Stacey Collins.

The Stradley Stage will hosts acts like the local Canal Winchester Steel Band, the oldest steel drum band in Ohio.

Festival dates:

Saturday Aug. 30, 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Sunday Aug. 31, 12 p.m to 11 p.m.

Monday Sept. 1, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

More information can be found at www.cwlaborday.org.