By Jason Klaiber

Staff Writer

Minoa will ring in autumn a bit early this year with its seventh annual Festival in the Park on Saturday, Sept. 7.

The festival will take place in Lewis Park on Main Street from 1:30 p.m. to dusk.

“Our park is beautiful and a perfect place to host an event rain or shine,” Mayor Bill Brazill said.

Live music will emanate from the park’s gazebo throughout the event’s duration.

At 1:30 p.m. teenage singer Hailey Sweeney will open up the festival with an acoustic set.

Acoustic duo and festival regulars Jake+Mike will take the stage from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

At 3:45 local piano player Tom Chick will perform, followed by bluegrass group The Pigeon Post String Band, who will play from 5 to 6 p.m.

Indie band Modafferi will perform from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m.

Three-time Grammy-nominated guitarist Frank Stepanek, a member of reggae group Black Uhuru, will close out the musical entertainment.

Brazill said that Stepanek’s performance, which runs from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., will offer the opportunity to see someone who has “been on the world stage.”

“He is the real deal,” Brazill said.

The mayor’s brother J. Brazill—a local musician involved with the indie rock band I am Fool —booked this year’s performers.

Throughout the day, caterer Frank’s Franks will serve as a food and drink vendor.

Members of American Legion Post 1102, stationed in the village, will be barbecuing as well.

The Festival in the Park will also feature face painting donated by Donna Butterfield, magic and balloons courtesy of CAIN Magic Company, crafts such as baskets and clothing, spiritual guidance from nonprofit Witches & Heathens of CNY, and a bonfire.

“People love the bonfire, and especially former East Syracuse-Minoa alumni remember the days of the school’s bonfire dances,” Brazill said.

Brazill said the festival will accommodate a classic car show if the forecast predicts clear skies.

The festivities will conclude with a roughly 20-minute firework display around 8:30 p.m.

The display will be sponsored by Superior Seal & Painting and Parkway Liquors.

Brazill said the festival has gained momentum over the years.

“Our residents love that we have an event that is for the entire family,” he said. “There is something for everyone.”

The activities and live music will be moved into Lewis Park’s pole barn if the festival lands on a rainy day, according to Brazill.

For more information, look up the Festival in the Park Facebook page or visit villageofminoa.com.

Submitted photo