"Celebrating Minerva's 175th Birthday" is the theme for this year's 85th annual Minerva Homecoming to be held Wednesday, June 18, through Saturday, June 21, in Municipal Park.

The parade kicks off the four-day event Wednesday, beginning promptly at 6 p.m.

The Minerva Homecoming features a variety of entertainment, from stunt bike riders to bands to dancers, Thursday through Saturday.

On Thursday, June 19, the Southern gospel band, Gospel Spirits, will perform at 6:30 p.m. on the stage. This concert is sponsored by the Minerva Lions Community Civic Club.

At 8 p.m., Loudon Motors Ford will present the Canton Biker Boyz in the Minerva High School parking lot. The stunt riders will perform a variety of tricks on their bikes.

There will also be a $1 ride ticket special from 6 p.m. to close.

On Friday, June 20, Brent Schneider returns to present Moments of Magic at 6 p.m. on the stage.

At 7 p.m., performers from the Powell Dance and Singing Center will provide the entertainment.

Stretching Ellsworth, the band from Grace Chapel, will perform at 8 p.m.

At 9:30 p.m., the Minerva Community Theatre will hold a Guitar Hero contest.

On Saturday, June 21, there is a ride matinee from 1 to 4 p.m. The ride special during the matinee is $6. Children may also sign up to win a bicycle.

LA Spoon, a contemporary Christian and gospel entertainment, will perform from 1 to 4 p.m. The Minerva Assembly of God Worship Band will perform at 6 p.m.

At 7 p.m., performers from Misty Karlen's Dance Studio will take the stage. At 9 p.m., perennial favorite Vintage Country will perform.

Kissel Amusement Company will once again be providing the rides for the Minerva Homecoming, June 18-21.

The midway, which features games and food, will open nightly at 6 p.m. throughout the Homecoming.

The Minerva Civic Club will be selling Lion burgers from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. each day.