4 Things to Look Forward to in Manchester

It's mid-July: Summer camps are in full swing, the pool is open and in frequent use, and there's a whole 'nother half of the year coming our way.

Town and Country-Manchester Patch asked Manchester's Parks and Recreation supervisor, Stephanie Hardesty, for a few things coming up in the city that residents and fans of the area can look forward to moving into late summer onward.

1. Pee Wee and Junior Fall Soccer Programs: Sign-ups are on their way for fall soccer programs in Manchester. Both Pee Wee (ages 3-4 years old) and Junior (ages 5-7) sessions are on Saturdays Aug. 10-Sept. 21. Check out prices, times and how to register on the City of Manchester website. 
2. Free Concert in the Park: There's one more summer concert this year, and it's Aug. 2 at the Donnelly Memorial Amphitheater in Schroeder Park. The entertainment of choice is That '80s Band with the festivities kicking off at 7 p.m.
   
3. 27th Annual Homecoming Celebration: It's one of Manchester's biggest events of the year, and this year it's the weekend of Sept. 6-8 at Schroeder Park. From music and entertainment to the homecoming parade, Homecoming bids a fond adieu to summertime with a doggie paddle party , contests and all kinds of overall good stuff. Check City of Manchester's website for more of what's in the works for this year's Homecoming.
4. National Football League's Punt, Pass and Kick skills competition: This national competition is coming to Manchester's Schroeder Park Sept. 18 and is open to boys and girls ages 6-15. The free program consists of punting, passing and place-kicking (hence the name) drills that allow participants to compete against their peers. Registration is on-site at 5:30 p.m. and the games begin at 6 p.m. Call ahead for more information at 636-391-6326 ext. 401.