Oliver Lott rides in a vintage fire engine during Parkersburg Homecoming’s Kids Fest Friday evening. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

PARKERSBURG — The 42nd annual Parkersburg Homecoming kicked off Friday with an opening ceremony held at Point Park alongside Kids Fest.

Festival organizers acknowledged early challenges after a medical emergency sidelined longtime setup coordinator Bob Mercer, but noted he is recovering at home.

“We are grateful that he is out of the hospital, back home and resting,” Lori Ullman Roberts, the emcee for the event, told the crowd.

This year’s homecoming court was introduced on stage, including Queen Emma Sloan and Teen Queen Callee Fowler.

The pageant contestants described the process that led them to their crowns, which included interviews, evening gown walks, and on-stage questions.

Kya Lemley picks up free school supplies available at the Parkersburg Homecoming Kids Fest on Friday. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

“Luckily, I was able to secure the title and be your 2025 Parkersburg Homecoming Festival Queen,” Sloan said.

Michael Wodnicki, president of the West Virginia Association of Fairs and Festivals, praised the event’s long-standing history.

“You guys have been here 42 years, and we appreciate each and every one of you coming out and celebrating,” he said.

The weekend’s lineup includes live music, food trucks, and Kids Fest, a free event supported by local civic groups. Organizers encouraged residents to enjoy one of the few remaining weekends of summer weather downtown.

The festival runs through Sunday. The schedule includes:

From left, Emma Sloan and Callee Fowler, both members on the Parkersburg Homecoming Court, discuss the pageant process to join the homecoming court. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

SATURDAY

* Noon-10 p.m. – arts and crafts

* 12:30 p.m. – Parkersburg Homecoming Parade

* TBA – Twirl Force

* 4 p.m. – 23rd Annual Johnny Staats Bluegrass Festival: Appalachian Hollow, 4 p.m.; Johnny Staats Project, 5:15 p.m.; Johnny Staats & the Delivery Boys, 6:30 p.m.

Michael Wodnicki praises Parkersburg Homecoming’s long-lasting tradition during Friday evening’s opening ceremony at Point Park. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

* 5 p.m. – Dachshund Races

* 6 p.m. – Higher Passion Wrestling

* 8 p.m. – Rubber Ducky Cash Drawing

* 8:30 p.m. – Ohio Valley Opry

* 10 p.m. – Fireworks

Lori Ullman Roberts welcomes attendees to the 42nd annual Parkersburg Homecoming on Friday at Point Park. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

SUNDAY

* 2 p.m. – Gospel Sing

* 3:15 p.m. – 3M Acoustic Trio

Easy Rider will operate a shuttle service from 2 p.m.-midnight Saturday from the South Side Kroger and from the Park Shopping Center.

Gwen Sour can be reached at gsour@newsandsentinel.com.