Rain holds off during annual Miss Ohio Scholarship Program Parade in Mansfield

MANSFIELD — Not even the threat of rain could slow down the annual Miss Ohio Scholarship Program Parade in downtown Mansfield on Sunday afternoon.

The annual kickoff event for Miss Ohio week, affectionately known as the “Show Us Your Shoes Parade,” featured all of the Miss Ohio and Miss Ohio Teen contestants.

The contestants rode in convertibles and on floats while showing off custom, elaborately decorated footwear that represents their hometowns, personalities or social impact initiatives.

It also included twirling units, cheerleaders and Hearts of Ohio participants, a youth mentoring program for girls ages 5–13 that takes place during the Miss Ohio Competition Week. It’s designed to build confidence and self-esteem through mentorship with Miss Ohio contestants.

State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) was the parade’s grand marshal. She won the Miss Ohio crown in 2006.

The event on Flag Day included U.S. flags distributed along the parade route by the Mid-Ohio Shrine Club.

The parade began at the five-way light on Park Avenue West at Marion Avenue and traveled east to Walnut Street, turning north and ending at Richland Carrousel Park. Contestants signed photographs for the public and there was food and drinks available for purchase.

The rain held off until the parade was complete.

The Miss Ohio and Miss Ohio’s Teen contestants will compete this week at Ashland High School’s Archer Auditorium, 1440 King Road. The Renaissance Theatre in Mansfield is not available due to restoration work.

The week’s official event schedule features: