Politics & Government

Sewickley Seeks Donations for Memorial Day Celebration

Residents are asked to help cover the cost of the four-day tribute to the nation's veterans.

Organizers of Sewickley's 120th  annual Memorial Day Celebration have planned events that include a fireworks display for the second year in a row.

Sewickley Mayor Brian Jeffe told council Monday night that money is now being raised to help cover the cost of the family-friendly event, which draws a large number of people. The event takes place over four days, May 27 to May 30.

“It’s very well-attended, and I think the folks look forward to it,” Jeffe said.

Find out what's happening in Sewickleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Jeffe said the only difference in this year’s celebration from years past is the location of the flag ceremony. It has been moved to Riverfront Park.

Jeffe said the Memorial Day Committee sent out letters this week seeking donations from the community, which has always covered the cost. About $25,000 is needed to pay for the event, with $10,000 alone required to pay for fireworks, he said.

Find out what's happening in Sewickleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Last year, the committee decided to incorporate fireworks as a tribute to veterans.  Despite a downpour during a prior flag retirement ceremony, Jeffe said, the rain stopped and the fireworks display went off without a hitch. It was a hit, he said.

Other parts of the celebration also come with a cost, such as the parade. Some groups donate their time while others pay a fee to participate, he said. The entire celebration is made possible through private donations, Jeffe said, adding that no tax dollars go toward covering expenses.

In today’s economy, Jeffe said, times are tough for many families. 

“We’re not the only group out there looking for money,” he acknowledged. “Even if it's $25, every little bit helps."

Memorial Day Weekend of Events

Friday, May 27, at Riverfront Park

6 p.m. -- Flag retirement ceremony

7:30 p.m. -- Music

Dark --  Fireworks celebration

 

Saturday, May 28

10:30 a.m. -- Memorial service aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Osage

 

Sunday, May 29

11 a.m. – Veteran’s Memorial Service, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 616 Washington St.

 

Monday, May 30

10 a.m. – 120th annual parade

Immediately following – Program at Wolcott Park.

Immediately following – Program at Sewickley Cemetery.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Sewickley