Many years ago, particularly during the Victorian and Edwardian eras, summer was said to be a time of decadence, socializing, and inspiration largely taking place outdoors. New Kensington’s second annual Sizzling Summer Night, held Saturday evening, had that kind of feel. Though she wasn’t around during those bygone times, one of the co-founders of the event, Michelle Thom of Voodoo Brewing, is a native of Manchester, England. She seems to have taken inspiration from that long ago time, as well as America’s carnivals and fairgrounds. Thom now makes her home in New Kensington, where she could be seen Saturday cavorting in garish clown makeup and attire for the event. She has become friends with Jamie Parker of Sweet Alchemy Bake Shop, and the two seem on to be on to something that is establishing itself as a warm-weather staple in the Alle-Kiski Valley. The lively entertainment included fire spinners, roving entertainers, live art demonstrations, clowns, puppets shows and even wrestlers.

Photo Credit: Asha Blake/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review