Memorial Day weekend events, activities announced

The Memorial Day weekend always provides residents and visitors with an endless amount of activities during the holiday weekend. This year, the entertainment begins on Friday evening with the first day of Art in the Park and the activities continue until Monday afternoon.

Here is a schedule and brief description of events occurring this weekend.

Friday, May 26

Art on the Park is having its debut in the Ritzville City Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event hosts a wide variety of artists from across the Inland Northwest, who will display their artwork over a three-day period. There is an Artist’s Reception from 6-8 p.m. at the Eagles Lodge in addition to the event.

The Washtucna Historical Museum and Community Center (WHMCC) is hosting a fundraiser event at 5:30 p.m. at the Grange Hall in Washtucna. The event will include a Mexican buffet dinner, and both a live and silent auction. Tickets are available at Java Bloom or at the door the night of the event.

Saturday, May 27

Beginning at 10 a.m., Art is the Park continues Saturday to highlight the creativity and talents of area artists. The group will be set up in Ritzville City Park on the eastside of the park. Residents are reminded a portion of Columbia Street will be closed to accommodate the event. The art show is open until 5 p.m.

The Fifth Annual Wheatland Jackpot Show is set for 11 a.m. at the Ritzville Fairgrounds. The event allows area youth to enter prospect steers and heifers for the chance to win awards. The event is free and open to the public.

The day concludes with the alumni banquets in Ritzville and Washtucna. Ritzville and Lind-Ritzville High School alumni are invited to attend a dinner at Gilson Gymnasium at 6 p.m. with honored class pictures being taken prior to the start of the evening’s events.

Washtucna High School Alumni Banquet also begins at 6 p.m. and honored classes have the opportunity to have photos taken before the banquet starts.

Sunday, May 28

The Ritzville Classic Car Club is continuing the annual car show downtown with Classics on Main Street. The classic car show begins at 10 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m. Many downtown businesses are coordinating with the event to supply visitors with specials.

Art in the Park will continue to be open to the public from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Prior to the opening on Sunday, the nine artist awards will be distributed and then on display at each individual artist booth.

Monday, May 29

On the Memorial Day holiday, residents are invited to attend the complimentary Pancake Breakfast, hosted by the Ritzville Fire Department. The fire station opens at 7 a.m. and lasts until 11 a.m. to provide visitors with a complete meal. Fire truck rides are also available during the event.

Memorial Day services are provided for residents to attend in Washtucna and Ritzville.

The Washtucna Pioneer Memorial Cemetery services begin at 11 a.m. with a prayer, readings and honoring veterans. After the service, a potluck luncheon is hosted at Washtucna Community Church, followed by a short program.

The Ritzville Memorial Cemetery services begin at 11:30 a.m. with a prayer and the presentation of colors by the local Honor Guard.