Belpre Homecoming hosted a plethora of carnival rides at their opening night Aug. 1, 2024. Children were able to ride all of the rides free of charge due to a one-day sponsorship by First Mutual Bank. (File photo)

BELPRE — The Belpre Homecoming is set to kick off Thursday and Homecoming Board President Amanda Wires said people can expect some returning favorites along with some new attractions.

“We have added some stunt shows to our events lineup this year,” Wires said.

“We are adding several new food and non-food vendors. We are having a Long Doggy Fest and also trolley rides this year. There will also be a comedy show late Friday evening.”

Wires said the Long Doggy Fest will include a dachshund race and other activities to allow dogs of every breed to participate.

Returning favorites include the pageants, parade and rides.

“Kids ride free on Thursday thanks to First Mutual Bank,” Wires said.

“There’s also a car show, kiddie tractor pulls and yoga by the pond.”

Wires said the City of Belpre is this year’s sponsor for the fireworks scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Saturday and there wouldn’t be a show without Mayor Suzan Abdella and Belpre City Council.

“We are so honored that they stepped up and took over this sponsorship,” Wires said. “We try to keep the fireworks as a yearly event to our homecoming because everyone loves them and each year they are something that is available for a sponsor to pay for. This year the committee pitched the idea to the mayor, and her and council agreed and wanted to make the Belpre Homecoming fireworks show a part of their budget for this year.”

Abdella said the city is proud to be the sponsor for the firework show this year and workers are working hard to get Civitan Park and the streets ready for the festivities.

Wires said people can also expect some great musical acts with Healthy Hustle Energy and Nutrition sponsoring the main stage.

“Our great entertainment includes Devin Henry on Saturday night and a Taylor Swift tribute -Taylor’s Story – Friday evening,” Wires said.

Sunday will be sponsored again by Rockland Church with a worship service at 10:45 a.m. followed by music from The Clark Family from Ohio Valley Opry at 11:30 a.m.

Wires said the event was free for everyone to attend and would take place rain or shine.

“Come have a great weekend as we celebrate our 93rd annual Belpre Homecoming,” Wires said. “The committee works hard to make sure we put on a family friendly event that has something for everyone to enjoy. And a huge thank you to our sponsors for making this possible.”

A full schedule and information on the car show, bike show, arts and crafts, pageants, event and vendor information can be found at www.belprehomecoming.com and the Facebook page.