Manchester hosts party for bridge

MANCHESTER — The town is hosting a free concert and party on Friday, from 5 to 8 p.m., to celebrate the centennial of Center Bridge.
The free festival marks the 100-year anniversary of the dry-laid marble arch bridge at the intersection of Routes 11/30 and 7A, one of the state’s last surviving stone bridges.
Starting Tuesday, construction crews shut the bridge down for 10 days to repair and reconstruct the bridge, which town officials said was the impetus for the festival.
The Don’t Leave Band, a local band which plays classic rock songs, will provide live music at the festival at the Town Green on Depot Street.
The festival kicks off with an auction of Malfunction Junction’s infamous flashing yellow lights to benefit a local charity which will be named on Friday. With a roundabout being built at the intersection, which the town is now calling “Function Junction,” the lights are no longer needed.
Festival-goers can enjoy food provided by NAN-Zs and cider donuts by Equinox Valley Nursery. Those older than 21 can toast the progress of the roundabout construction with a beverage from the beer tent provided by the Gourmet Deli.
Face-painting and a bounce-house with a pirate theme will also be available.
Should rain or other conditions warrant, the festival will be moved to Riley Rink on Route 7A.
Additional details are on Manchester’s Facebook page. Also, for more information, call 362-0207.