Rain in the forecast did not prevent thousands of community members, residents, and visitors from celebrating Mount Rainier Day! A vast crowd gathered at the Historic Circle, Rhode Island Ave, and Perry Street to join the festivities during Mount Rainier Day on May 14, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m, which featured live music and performances, a kids’ section, and vendors’ section.
The event kicked off with a parade that showcased performances from Eastern Senior High School Blue and White Marching Band, Mariachi Esmeralda, and Los Tecuanes de Riverdale. Mayor Celina Benitez, Council Members Jimmy Tarlau, Luke Chesek, and Valerie Woodall, City Manager Kourosh Kamali led the parade that started in Kaywood Theater to the neighboring communities and ended in Bunker Hill Fire Station. This year’s 21 parade entries also included Mount Rainier Elementary School PTO, Thomas Stone Elementary School PTO, Top Flight Corvette Club Prince George’s County offices, elected officials, candidates, and other members of the community.
This year’s Mount Rainier Day Stage also brought a crowd with featured performances from a diverse mix of talented musicians and performers including Mount Rainier locals Silva Logan Sharp and Alex Martin, Mexican Group Mariachi Esmeralda, DC-based bands Steel Band Pan Masters Steel Orchestra Band, Proverbs Reggae Band, and The Mighty Peacemakers Band.
“The Mount Rainier Day performances are always an anticipated element in every Mount Rainier Day celebration, and we are very mindful of bringing musicians and performers that will cater to our wide range of diverse audiences in the City,” Mayor Celina Benitez said.
Mount Rainier Day was also known for the long lineup of vendors at Rhode Island Ave during the festival. This year’s Street Festival featured 60 vendors offering a wide variety of unique finds, books, food, and information. Local artists and local vendors were also spotted during the event including Floreo, BAC-ART, and Purple Wellness. A display of the newest model of Corvette from Top Flight Corvette Club, one of the event sponsors, was also a hit attraction at the festival.
The kids’ area was also a favorite as kids were treated to free ice cream, kids’ activities, and entertainment. Payaso Monchito delightfully entertained children at the festival, while others got a chance to have a photo with children’s characters. Thomas Stone Elementary School PTA also brought their ‘Tiger Spirit’ during Mount Rainier Day offering free tiger face painting to community members and providing activities and giveaways.
“After two years of hiatus, it is great to see our community come together to celebrate the City’s birthday. This is truly a celebration of our community.” Mayor Benitez said.