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McDONALD -- The committee planning the 84th annual McDonald Firemen's Homecoming Festival say they receive calls at the beginning of the year from former residents who want to know when the event is being held.
This year's festival is 6 to 11 p.m. today through Saturday at Woodland Park across from the municipal building at Ohio Avenue and Fifth Street.
Fire Lt. John Williamson, a committee member of the McDonald Firemen's Social Organization, which sponsors the annual event, said former residents and relatives of village residents plan their returns to McDonald based on when the festival is being held.
"Family reunions, class reunions and vacations are planned around the festival," Williamson said.
He said the village's population of 3,700 doubles that week with returning residents and many visitors to the community for the festivities.
"The parade is a huge draw. The entire length of Ohio (Avenue), especially between Fourth and Sixth streets are packed with people. The kids love getting all the candy," Williamson said.
The 16th annual Run of the Mill one-mile foot race will begin festivities at 5:45 p.m. today as runners travel north along Ohio Avenue through the center to the steel mill entrance.
Following the race is a parade at 6 p.m. The parade will travel south along Ohio Avenue starting by Second Street and end near Marshall Road. The parade will include the high school band, sports teams, clubs, scouts, antique cars and firetrucks.
The festival will feature amusement rides, games, bingo and food nightly. Wristbands for rides and other activities will be available for each night of the festival and are also available at the municipal building. Fireworks will conclude the activities 10 p.m. Saturday.
The McDonald Historical Society will set up displays and exhibits at the senior center on Ohio Avenue as plans are underway for the 100th anniversary of the village in 2018.
During the festival there will be no children's park events and the splash pad will be closed today through Saturday.