WQIO Ohio's Super Station
Downtown Mount Vernon was filled with community activity during August First Friday, with residents and visitors coming out to enjoy an evening of local businesses, entertainment and special activities.
One of the evening’s highlights was the 2026 WNZR Costumed Paws on Parade, held in partnership with Experience Mount Vernon. The competition brought local pet owners downtown with their creatively dressed four-legged friends.
This year’s Most Creative Costume Award went to Zoey Bricker of Mount Vernon and her dog, Sadie. Bricker dressed as a fisherman while Sadie was dressed as a fish, creating a coordinated costume that earned the pair the top creative honor.
The Dog the Judges Most Want to Take Home Award was presented to Erika Boucher of Galion and her dog, Kay. Kay was dressed as a pumpkin for the competition.
The evening’s Best of Show Award went to Erika Mason of Fredericktown and her dog, Ansley Ann. Mason was dressed as a teacher, while Ansley Ann appeared as a prima ballerina.
The Costumed Paws on Parade was one of the activities bringing families and visitors together in downtown Mount Vernon during the monthly First Friday celebration.
The event also gave residents an opportunity to support downtown businesses while enjoying the community atmosphere that has become a regular part of First Friday in Mount Vernon.
