Nickel Plate Music and Arts Festival brings parade to its 4th year

The 4th annual Nickel Plate Music and Arts Festival returns to downtown Rochester Aug. 31 for more music, crafting and vendors. One new thing added to the plate this year is a parade.

It's been years since Rochester has seen the excitement of a parade. With his mind set on bringing one back to the community, Ed Richard took the initiative to bring the parade tradition back during the 4th annual Nickel Plate Music and Arts Festival on Aug. 31. This year's theme, "Hometown Pride," something Richard and Chair of the Rochester Downtown Partnership (RDP) Promotions Committee, Christine Walsh, hopes inspires community members to not only take pride in the community, but also maybe even get on board to help in the future. The parade route will remain the same as the previous parade route held for the former Round Barn Festival, starting at Rochester High School and winding down Main Street to Ninth Street. 

Hoping to feature as many floats, classic vehicles, vintage tractors and more, the parade isn't the only thing Walsh said they are needing for volunteers. From helping with craft booths, contests and more, Walsh said volunteering doesn't mean you have to spend the entire day at the festival, and even an hour or two would be helpful. 

Walsh and many other members of RDP have worked diligently with musicians and artists to organize and provide entertainment during the event, established an outstanding volunteer group to support the event, that they're hoping to grow. Walsh has also worked with local businesses, and other donors, to raise funds and cover the costs associated with the event to make the event free for the public. 

Among the entertainment, five bands will be performing that day. Pork and Beans Brass Band, Indy Annies, Chicago Diamond Trio, Malachi Jaggers and The 1985 Band. 

For those looking to volunteer can email them at info@rochester-downtown.com or contact them at message them on the Rochester Downtown Partnership Facebook page.