West Chester and Liberty Township families looking for a free way to celebrate America's 250th birthday don't have to go far. Great Parks is hosting its America 250 Great Picnic at Miami Whitewater Forest in Harrison on Saturday, July 18, starting at 4 p.m.
The America 250 Ohio Commission designated the event as one of only four state signature events in Ohio this year, giving the Greater Cincinnati region a rare, official role in the national celebration.
Todd Curliss, Great Parks director of events, told WCPO 9 that planning began almost a year ago and that organizers expect about 3,000 people. "This is a milestone celebration," Curliss said. "We're happy to bear this torch for the Greater Cincinnati region and invite people out to this large-scale community event, free with tons of different activities and fun things to happen throughout the day."
The headliner is Blessid Union of Souls, the Cincinnati-formed rock band known for its 1995 No. 1 hit "I Believe." Before they take the stage, the Ohio Military Band will perform a patriotic set with its 40- to 50-piece orchestra.
On the park's green, the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum's 1869 Red Stockings vintage baseball team will play a demonstration exhibition game. A B-25 bomber flyover is also scheduled, according to event organizers.
Free contests include pie eating, picnic table decorating, a pioneering contest, and a youth bike parade. A cornhole tournament carries a $10 entry fee. Total prize value across all contests tops $3,000.
Attendees can bring their own food and drinks. Food and beverage vendors, including those serving alcohol, will also be on-site.
Curliss called Miami Whitewater Forest one of the most scenic spots in the Greater Cincinnati region for a family picnic, encouraging residents to bring blankets, baskets, and neighbors.
Upcoming community events
- Friday, July 24 — Vendor applications open for Liberty Township's annual Fall Festival (scheduled Saturday, Sept. 26, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at Liberty Park).
- Friday, Aug. 7 — Lakota Local Schools' first Back-to-School Fair, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at VanGorden Elementary School, 6475 LeSourdsville-West Chester Road. No registration required.
- Thursday, Aug. 6–Sunday, Aug. 9 — VOA Country Music Festival at Voice of America MetroPark in West Chester, featuring Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, and Rascal Flatts.
