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County residents can attend two festivals to enjoy the unofficial start of summer and can end the weekend with a somber reminder Monday.

The Bath Memorial Day celebration returns to Bonner’s Point all day Saturday and well into the evening.

Event organizers are counting on a barbeque competition, a classic car show, an antique tractor display, a concert by The Embers, with Washington native Craig Woolard and a fireworks show to bring the crowds back after a three-year COVID-19 induced hiatus. All activities are free.

“We have something for everybody and we pride ourselves on being family-friendly,” Jason Pair, president of the greater Bath Foundation, said. “We planned to do the BBQ contest a couple of years ago, but couldn’t because of COVID, so we are excited about that. The product will be for sale after the judging. The Embers always put on a great show and the fireworks are outstanding. We are looking forward to a fun day.”

The Fossil Festival returns to Aurora Saturday and Sunday as well.

Digging for fossils, displays, silent & live auction, movie night, parade, live entertainment, food & craft vendors, Saturday night glow party and a dinosaur show are among the activities planned.

The Bonifies will entertain from 2:30 to 4:30, then Rivermist plays from 6-8 p.m. Saturday. The festival includes ticketed events.

The holiday concludes with Washington’s annual Memorial Day ceremony to honor those who gave their lives in service to their country.

“Our theme this year is “Lest We Forget”, Beaufort County Disabled American Veteran’s Commander Juanita White said.  “We will be talking about why we say “Lest We Forget” and covering why we play “TAPS” and have 3 round volleys at a Military Honor Funeral. We’ll also honor those Killed in Action (KIA) from Beaufort County with the Last Roll Call and honoring gold star families. Veteran’s Day is to honor the living, while Memorial Day recognizes those who didn’t make it back.”

The ceremony starts at 11 a.m. in Veterans Park, 404 E. 3^rd Street in Washington.