There's a party going on at Newfane Town Celebration

by Tiffany Hyman

Cool and the Gang entertained audiences all over the world singing the band's hit sensation, "Celebration." Part of the lyrics include:

"There's a party going on right here/A celebration to last throughout the years/Bring out your good times and your laughter too/We going to celebrate your party with you."

The 25th annual Newfane Town Celebration will take place on Friday, Aug. 19, through Sunday, Aug. 21, on Main Street in the town.

 Truth be told, this celebration may not last all year, but it certainly will be a fun, exciting and celebratory weekend.

Sponsored by the Newfane Business and Professional Association, the event, known as the "Sidewalk Sale" and "August Fest," is regarded as Newfane's most hip celebration of the entire summer. So, why should you attend?

"It's a great weekend for everyone to celebrate and come to Newfane," said Vicki Banks, coach for the town celebration. "It is one of the biggest events in the area and there's so much to do."

Newfane's motto is "Where lakeside country fun begins." The town has plenty of it - each day of the weekend features different and exciting activities, entertainment and food for all ages. This year's theme is "Happy Birthday" to celebrate 100 years of Newfane's Free Library and the Miller Hose Fire Co.

No one likes a hog, but fortunately, this hog is not a pig, selfish individual or Harley Owners Group. Instead, it's "Wild Hogs," a hilariously happy, but not so lucky, biker movie. Damien from the hit movie said, "Well Wild Hogs, ride hard or stay home."

OK, OK, that is a bit stereotypical. There is no need to really ride hard or stay home, but instead take the bikes and ride to the sixth annual bike cruise, taking place on Friday. From Harley-Davidson to Yamaha to BMW, owners of all makes and models are welcome to show off their skills, talents and last but not least, their cool, one-of-a-kind bikes. Ride in a motorcycle, walk with the family, drive or ride a horse - whichever you choose, do so with style.

Sue Neidlinger, chairperson for Bike Night and owner of Shop on Main boutique, explained how the event came to be.

"Six years ago, a group of active riders were looking for a new venue," she said. "I thought to myself, 'Why not Newfane because we don't have anything like this around here?' "

Neidlinger said all makes and models of bikes are welcome, especially if you seek the unique. In past years, many have stood out with cool paint jobs, vintage models, and bikes that are "pimped out." Although Neidlinger has seen incredible bikes, she recalls one in particular.

"A biker painted his ride to commemorate 9/11. It was incredible and showed what patriotism Americans have," she said.

Neidlinger encourages all to travel to the bike cruise on Route 18 to view the picturesque Niagara County.

Don't miss out on an eventful Saturday, kicking off the town's celebration with a parade. Local businesses will put forth their best effort to win over the judges by showcasing their unique floats. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded for the best float.

"Come out and enjoy the parade, intended for the entire family," said Laura Rutland, chairperson for the parade.

In addition to the parade, there also will be a competition to showcase some of Newfane's most talented kids baton-twirling, dancing and singing. Cash prize will be awarded to first, second and third place.

"There are quite a few artistic kids in this area, whether it's a Boy Scout, Girl Scout or anyone. They can do whatever they want as long as it's legal," joked Rutland. "It really shows off their talents."

The town celebration day is filled with plenty of entertainment, including a Zumba demonstration, magic show, recital review, Hot Country Line Dancers, the Lakeside Blues Duo and Andrea Adinolfe Music. There will also be plenty of food and, of course, beer tents and wine tasting.

"Parents can enjoy, kids can enjoy, everyone can enjoy," said Rutland.

Oh, Sunday fun day. Guests are encouraged to attend the Carousel Community Day to celebrate not only the town, but the Allen Herschell Carousel as well. Enjoy the birthday-themed celebration with Roaring '20s fashion. Many kids activities and family shows will be offered, including face painting, washable tattoos, a skee ball competition, balloon animals, fire truck rides, and free carousel rides.

"The kids really get into the competition and the various activities. It gets pretty intense," said Gary Cammarata, chairman of Carousel Community Day. "The skee ball machines are vintage and old-fashioned. It's a great time."

The skee ball competition is divided amongst three age groups: children, teenagers and adults. Winners will receive Regal gift cards in each category.

Be sure to see "guest" appearances by Popeye and Betty Boop at 12:15 and 3:15 p.m.

"The show is just a blast, and, hey, it's free," said Cammarata.

Banks, Neidlinger, Rutland and Cammarata encourage guests from all communities to attend to the weekend celebration.

"A few years ago, it was reinvented and now it's just glorious," said Banks.

"It's a great and wonderful event for local businesses," said Neidlinger. "It's geared for the entire family, and it's not costly."

"The celebration showcases local businesses and groups," said Rutland. "There's dancing, food and just a lot of fun, not to mention it's very inexpensive."

"There are plenty of things to do," said Cammarata. "It really makes for a good weekend.'

The Newfane Town Celebration will take place Friday, Aug. 19, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 20, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Main Street in Newfane. Community Appreciation Day will take place at Olcott Beach Carousel Park in Olcott from noon to 6 p.m. Guests are encouraged to stay the whole weekend and support business at Newfane's hotels, including Brookins Inn and Suites, Lockport Inn and Suites and Holiday Inn.

For more information, visit http://www.newfanetowncelebration.com/index.html.