Richland Township's Community Day back after pandemic hiatus

After being forced to cancel last year’s community day celebration because of the coronavirus pandemic, Richland Township officials are hoping residents are good and ready to get outside for a little summer fun.

The 27th annual Community Day is scheduled from 5 to 9 p.m. on Aug. 14 at Richland Township Community Park, 1157 Sterling Drive.

“We had to scale things back a little bit this year, but there will be tons of fun,” said Melissa Williams, the township’s parks and recreation coordinator. “Rather than having the activities for children in the barn, we will do them in the park’s lower level so kids can be outside and not so close to each other.”

Williams said based on the turnout at other community day events in the area, she’s expecting a large crowd in Richland.

“It’s a nice opportunity for people in the community to gather with their neighbors,” she said. “I don’t think there are a lot of worries about the crowd because everything is outside, so it’s safer.”

A favorite among the kids, Giggles the Clown, will be at the festival along with a professional face painter. There also will be inflatables and a trackless train ride.

Public safety vehicles from the Northern Regional Police Department along with vehicles from the township’s public works department and the fire and EMS services will be at the park for a “touch a truck” event.

Community Day kicks off at at 5 p.m. with a ceremony featuring members of the American Legion.

The park’s splash pad will be open from 5 until 9 p.m. and there will be food booths and other activities.

Entertainment begins at 7 p.m. with music provided by the classic hits band Endeavor.

The day will be capped off with a fireworks display by Zambelli International starting at 9:30 p.m.