The city of Adrian is gearing up for an exciting series of events scheduled from July 3 to July 6, coinciding with the bicentennial celebrations. The planning committee, led by Commissioner Roberts, is currently coordinating with various local organizations, including Adrian College, the Adrian Public Library, and the River Raisin Ragtime Review, to create a vibrant community experience.

The festivities will kick off on July 3 with performances by the Adrian City Band and the Lennoway Community Chorus, alongside an ice cream social. The following day, July 4, will feature a parade in partnership with Civitan, the opening of a time capsule, and historical walking tours of downtown Adrian and Oakwood Cemetery. The day will culminate with a homecoming gathering for former residents and a fireworks display.

On July 5, the celebration will continue with more tours and potentially a vintage baseball game, while the final day, July 6, will include a community picnic and the burial of a new time capsule in Comstock Park. The committee is actively seeking volunteers to help with the events, emphasizing the need for community involvement.

A key discussion point during the meeting was the nature of the event—whether it should be classified as a city-run event or primarily a bicentennial committee initiative. The consensus leaned towards a collaborative approach, with the city facilitating logistics and support while allowing individual organizations to manage their respective activities.

In addition to the bicentennial events, the meeting also highlighted the upcoming visit from the Moriyama sister city delegation, scheduled for September 6. The delegation will participate in local events, including a football game at Adrian College, and will be welcomed during the First Friday celebration. The visit is particularly significant as it includes the mayor of Moriyama, marking a rare occasion for such a high-profile visit.

Overall, the city is poised for a memorable celebration, with a strong emphasis on community engagement and collaboration among local organizations. The planning committee encourages residents to participate and contribute to the success of the bicentennial festivities.