The fifth Saturday brings music and fun to the Downtown Square in Troy.

“We’re so excited to have the Park Band kicking off this weekend’s Downtown Troy Fifth Saturday events,” said Leigh Anne Windham, who coordinates downtown activities for the City of Troy. “It’s always a great time for the community when the Park Band is in town.”

The Troy-based band, which has earned regional acclaim, will perform a free concert on the Square from 7 to 10 p.m. The public is invited to join the fun, bringing chairs and blankets to enjoy the music.

“They appeal to people of all ages, and we know we’ll have a large crowd so people should come early,” Windham said.

She also said downtown eateries will be open to serve dinner before the event.

On Saturday, the Pike County Humane Society will have its “Blessing of the Animals” ceremony at 10 a.m. followed immediately by a pet parade around the perimeter of the Square.

Donna Brockman, event chair, said the blessing and parade kick off the celebration of “Be Kind to Animals Week.”

“Everyone who loves their pet is invited to come, have their pet blessed and participate in the parade around the perimeter of the square,” Brockmann said. “We do ask that all pets be on a leash, in a pet carrier or on a wagon or whatever works for the animal to be secured. We will have tubs of water for the animals so their experience will be a good one.

“A member of the clergy will bless the animals and perhaps share a parable or applicable scripture,” she said. “Following the Blessing of the Animals, we will have the Pet Parade, which will be a kind of pet social.”

Polka dot doggie bags will be available in the event of an animal accident during the festivities.

Downtown restaurants and businesses will be open and offering specials during the weekend. “We hope everyone will come out and join us,” Windham said.