A wonderful Westwood Day

By Isabell Macrina
Hometown Weekly Reporter

Westwood High School grounds were transformed into a stage for the celebration of Westwood Day this past Saturday. Every year the event showcases what Westwood has to offer, its hidden treasures that even residents of the town can miss.

The day started off at 9 a.m. with the 5K race. Participants lined up outside the gates and at the announcement, took off running. They shot down the street before they were out of sight and had so much energy despite the hour of the race. The Fun Run started an hour later, at 10 a.m., which was only a one-mile loop back to the high school. There were a lot of children lined up for this, and parents cheered them on every step of the way.

One of the standouts this year was when the dancers of Greene-O’Leary School of Irish Dance took to the stage. The young students moved with precise, rapid footwork to the music, and it was awe-inspiring. The tradition of Irish dancing is a long running one and takes immense dedication to execute, and these dancers did it spectacularly. With curls piled on the girl’s heads and smiles from all, they dazzled the crowd.

There was far more to do than just watch performances. The food court was comprised of local businesses showing off their delicious goods, with something for everyone’s taste. The Vendor Village showed off everything Westwood had to offer, from the banks and churches getting to connect with the community in a way beyond professionalism, to the local dance groups, cheerleader teams, and even the local martial arts studio.

Games were around nearly every corner, with lawn games like cornhole, mini golf, and bubbles for the kids to jump around trying to hit. There was also an area to carve and paint pumpkins, or to get your face painted with that bit of whimsy we all chase.

There was also a K9 demonstration done by Westwood Police Department. It was a great way to show the multipurpose of the dogs in Westwood PD, not just the dogs trained to bite and apprehend criminals. They also were trained to help with search and rescue, evidence retrieval, and guidance for children, the elderly, and those on the autism spectrum.

Westwood Winds also showcased their talents in the final show of the day. The group comprised of locals with music talent stretching between the woodwinds, brass instruments, an upright bass, and even maracas. Their serenade was a brilliant sendoff to the day.

Westwood Day is a brilliant event for friends and family alike. It has something for everyone, from activities for the kids to those local businesses your parents might just need. Make sure not to miss it next year.