Full summer event calendar taking shape in Washington

WASHINGTON - A variety of organizations are preparing summer events with COVID-19 precautions in place.

In recent months, these organizations have been making pitches at Washington City Council meetings.

The Kewash Half Marathon will take place on April 17.

Organizer Teri Hartzler said it is one of the few races in the state holding a live event.

There will be social distancing, and groups will be staggered, but all the events will take place on same day.

She said masks will be worn by staff, and they will be recommending runners wear masks.

Stairway to the Stars presented an event application for an outdoor recital if COVID-19 restrictions prevent a normal recital.

On May 10 through 15, Melissa Westphal plans to have a socially distanced recital on the bandstand stage in Washington's Central Park.

She presented a separate request to have an outdoor screening of the recorded recital on July 31 at the bandstand.

The Latino Festival will take place June 6.

Organizer Sonia Leyva said the festival is part of the summer classic and will take place downtown.

There is a backup date for Sept. 18. Leyva said this is in case there is more time needed to plan for COVID-19 precautions. The backup date falls during Hispanic Heritage Month.

The Washington Public Library will be holding a variety of summer reading events downtown.

Director Bryna Walker said there are multiple days scheduled so people can attend and maintain social distancing.

There will be three performances at the bandstand on June 15, June 22 and July 6.

She said performers will visit Wellman and Kalona, so people do not have to visit Washington to see the show.