Zane's Trace Commemoration returns with a boat race, hot dog eating contest and more
ZANESVILLE − Certain things can trigger a memory, be it a smell, a sound, or the way something tastes. For many Muskingum County residents, the Zane's Trace Commemoration evokes memories of summer days gone by, hanging out by the river, and celebrating the remarkable history of Zanesville.
The commemoration continues to thrive and returns this weekend. Hoping to grow from last year, numerous events and activities will keep your weekend full. The three-day event starts on Friday and concludes on Sunday. The main portion of the commemoration will be held in the area of Putnam Landing and Muskingum Avenue, just south of the Sixth Street. Bridge.
Start your Saturday morning by attending the grand parade. Watch as vintage cars and local groups march through downtown. The parade is set to begin its journey at 10 a.m., with the line up beginning at 8 a.m. of front of Secrest Auditorium.
New to the event this year is a hot dog eating contest. The contest will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Participants in three age brackets, 13 to 15, 16 to 18, and 18+, can challenge each other to become the first commemoration champion. Competitors must finish as many hot dogs, including the buns, as possible within the 5 minute time frame. Be wary before registering though, as "Visible signs of sickness will result in disqualification." To register visit the Zane's Trace Commemoration website and download the PDF.
Two stages offering live music and entertainment will be set up for the weekend. Currently scheduled to perform are a number of bands, including Julia Neville, Lee Bundy, Dejected, Sweet Misery, American Mojo, Slaw Dog, Spelchek and Evan Abood. Dance groups from MM Dance and A to J Dance Krew will also be showcasing their talents on stage 2 Saturday.
Ever wonder how good you'd be at boat building? Here's your chance to find out. The Anything That Floats but a Boat Race will take place on the canal on Sunday afternoon. You must pre-register for the event and inspections will be made of all registered crafts. Get creative using wood, plastic or metal barrels, inner tubes and ropes to make the fastest watercraft you can. Absolutely no glass or Styrofoam is allowed, and waivers must be signed for all boaters.
Attendees will also be able to look for treasures as various artists and vendors will be selling their goods. Food vendors will also be on-site, providing those festival staples such as cotton candy, fresh-cut fries, and the ever-popular tenderloin sandwiches.
Event organizer Rick Buck estimates the event will bring in roughly 5,000 people throughout the three-day event, up from the 3000 people that attended last year.
A portion of the proceeds from the event will be used to complete the mini museum that will be located in the Y Bridge Cultural Arts Center. Those looking to get a more in-depth lesson about the city can take part in a canal walk, where local historians and experts will regale you with interesting tidbits and information about the area.
The festival is scheduled to run from noon to 9 p.m. Friday, events open after the 10 a.m. parade and continues until 9 p.m. Saturday, and from noon to 7 p.m. Sunday. Parking is free and a shuttle service will be available to get you to and from the event. Attendees can park at Job and Family Service, 445 Woodlawn Ave., or visit the event Facebook page for a QR code that lists all available parking. For more information visit the Zane's Trace Commemoration website.
This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: Zane's Trace Commemoration returns this weekend
