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Big weekend arrives in valley
(by Barbara Christian - May 23, 2012)
WINDOW ON MAIN STREET, BY BARBARA CHRISTIAN
Big weekend arrives in valley
It's here. The biggest, most anticipated weekend of the year -- at least here in our town, Chagrin Falls, and the rest of the Chagrin Valley.
Of course, you know we are talking about Blossom Time. And never taking a back seat to that frivolity is the more reflective and thankful observance that happens on Monday, Memorial Day. More on that later.
The Chagrin Valley Jaycees sponsor Blossom Time, an enormous undertaking with so many moving parts it's hard to keep track of what's happening when.
If you aren't sure, check the program book (it was tucked inside last week's Times) or check the schedule which appears in the paper you are holding in your hands right now. The third option is to wander into town and have fun seeing or doing whatever happens to be going on at the time. It's all good.
Take your pick, Thursday's opening ceremonies, kids day contests on Saturday, live music under the big-top tent, old-time baseball games, the Blossom Time run Saturday, Sunday's big parade down East Washington Street and, of course, the carnival, which runs through Sunday evening.
There are amusement rides, food and games, of course, and the Taste of Chagrin food court on North Franklin Street and Triangle Park, which is a good place for those who need a respite from the happy hurly-burly.
Don't forget to check the skies, not for a weather front moving in but for the gorgeous hot-air balloons that sail over the valley to and from the high school grounds as their pilots compete in daily balloon races.
Watch and listen for them -- they make the sound of a very long and loud sigh -- in early morning and early evening all weekend long when the conditions are right. And not to be missed is the magical "balloon glow" at dark on Thursday on the back field at the high school.
So much to see. So much to do.
Aside from a great good time, Blossom Time also raises a lot of loot that turns into donations the Jaycees give to local charities, causes and institutions every February.
Asked to describe one amazing thing about Blossom Time weekend in Chagrin Falls, it would be this: No matter what the weather, the town is packed. I mean so chock full of people Main Street looks like Times Square.
This weekend's mass outpouring of humanity should put to rest the local folklore that has been handed down through the generations -- that there is no parking in Chagrin Falls. Truly, where do all these people put their cars? And why is there always room for one more?
Then come Monday, Memorial Day, and this hectic time that was Blossom Time recedes to the background. Everything slows down as we remember and show gratitude for the service men and women who sacrificed so that we can have Blossom Time weekend in a place called Chagrin Falls.
Show your appreciation by coming to Triangle Park at 10 a.m. Watch the parade, walk to Evergreen Hill Cemetery, listen to the tributes and say thank you to the veterans and active service men and women who gather there.
Yes, it's a big, big weekend in our town. If you are visiting, welcome to Chagrin Falls. If you are returning for a class reunion, welcome home. If you live here, persevere and enjoy being in the center of the action.
Happy Blossom Time and have a meaningful Memorial Day, everyone.
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