Mill Creek MetroParks plans its annual Sunfest

The activities include a one-mile hike and sand sculpture contest.

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — Mill Creek MetroParks will have its yearly Sunfest at James L. Wick Recreation Area on Sunday.

The summer fest has been an annual event for at least 18 years, said Anthony Leone, special projects director for the park.

“I think that everyone can find something to fill their own niche and the concerts in the evening always draw a large crowd,” he said. “It’s definitely a major event for the park.”

The variety of activities include a golf contest on the Par 3 golf course, a one-mile hike, a sand sculpture contest and concerts to close the festival.

Leone estimates that throughout the day anywhere from 1,500 to 2,000 people will show up for the event, with most turning out for the concert featuring That ’60s Band and Redline, a local R&B group.

Redline has played at area weddings, proms and other formal functions, including Gov. Ted Strickland’s inaugural ball last year, but usually plays out at the park at least once a year.

“We look forward to Sunfest. It always gets a good crowd and everyone’s in great mood,” said Kevin Downs, the band’s leader. “We can take off our tuxedos and have fun.”

For an outdoor performance, Redline will play more “upbeat” music and less ballads and swing, he said.

“We’ll gear it toward the audience, but they’re all going to enjoy the new music of today,” Downs said.

Even if it rains, a decision to cancel the concert would not be made until the time of the event, Leone said.

“We don’t officially cancel anything, but if there’s bad weather, not many people will come out anyway,” he said. “I hope the weather’s nice because it’s a great event and I’m hoping to see a lot of people out enjoying their MetroParks.”