George Washington lantern parade preparation

CONFLUENCE ― A giant George Washington parade puppet will be leading the charge for the borough’s 150th-anniversary celebration Saturday.

Community volunteers have been working on the construction of a 9-foot-tall paper-mache figure that looks like George Washington, who first explored the Confluence region in the mid-1700s and returned numerous times. His guide, Christopher Gist, told Washington the way the three waterways converge ― the Casselman and Youghiogheny Rivers and Laurel Hill Creek ― reminded him of a turkey's foot. Washington referred to the valley as the "Turkeyfoot area" in his writings.

The lantern parade is a participatory activity that promises the riverside will be filled with colorful lights and Confluence spirit. Children, adults, residents and visitors are invited to make a tissue paper lantern or bring their own lanterns and follow George Washington a few blocks down the dike to a viewing site for fireworks. The lantern parade will start at about 8 p.m. at the Bandstand in the Confluence square.

Everyone is invited to make a tissue paper lantern during the day at Art-in-the-Park – free hands-on art stations for everyone to enjoy from 12-4 p.m. Aug. 5. This year’s Art-in-the-Park includes not only lantern-making but also a variety of other crafts and activities suitable for all ages and abilities.

”There will be free hands-on art stations for everyone to make their lanterns. Art-in-the-Park will also include a variety of other crafts and activities suitable for all ages and abilities. From toddlers to old geezers, there’s messy fun for all!" said Jody Best, co-founder with husband Jay of the Confluence Creative Arts Center.

Music and food vendors will be part of the scene. The day of art and history will culminate in a display of fireworks at 9 p.m.

This article originally appeared on The Daily American: George Washington lantern parade preparation