CHEVIOT, Ohio – The Brood X cicadas arrived at the dismay of many, but for some, it’s a reason to celebrate.
Marching at the tune of the bagpipes, people young and old lined up for a chance to model their cicada costumes.
It was all part of a contest for the Cicada March Pocket Party, which organizer Ray Kroner said gives locals a chance to shed their own shell as COVID-19 restrictions are lifting.
“We’re coming out of a pandemic, and we walked right into the plague of the cicadas,” Kroner said. “So we’re trying to make the best of that and showcase what Cheviot’s potential is.”
Dr. Gene Kritsky and local media celebrities made the call on whose costumes stood out the best, picking several winners. Giving parents and kids a reward for their creativity. John Comings, 10, said he can’t take all the credit.
“My mom actually made this for me,” Comings said.
Another winner said it’s great to have some family fun.
“It’s nice to be in a group and see people and hang out and kids can come out and have a good time,” Justine Johnson said.
Which is exactly what organizers hoped for — no bugs about it.
“We love to see people come out and enjoy life again,” Kroner said.
