NEW BERLIN – The streets of New Berlin will be filled with jubilee this weekend as the community honors a half-century of tradition, celebrating its 47th annual Youth Days.

The festivities take place all through the weekend on the grounds of Milford Academy in downtown New Berlin along South Main Street and admission to all events is free.

Thursday

Youth Days kicks off at 6 p.m. in the Unadilla Valley High School auditorium with the Miss Youth Days Pageant and presentations of the ‘Youth of the Year’ and ‘Citizen of the Year’ awards.

“It’s an event we try to do as cheaply as possible so kids that can’t always afford to go to other places can still participate with their community. Often in the same weekend (as Youth Days), a number of class reunions and other events get scheduled. It’s a weekend where a lot of the people from out of the area come home to see their family and hometown,” said New Berlin Youth Days Committee President Larissa Hanslmaier.

Also from 5 to 8 p.m. is the car and motorcycle cruise-in at the Dakin Funeral Home parking lot, which will include a trophy presentation for the event at 8 p.m.

Friday

Friday marks the opening of the main attractions, including the food booths and midway rides.

“One of the biggest things happening this year is NBT sponsoring free rides for all ages Friday night. It’s a big deal,” said Hanslmaier.