×

Celebrating Dean Martin

His talent made him, even by today’s standards, larger than life.

He was the symbol of the era of cocktail cool, hanging out with his pals, holding a cigarette in one hand and a glass of whiskey in the other, a beautiful woman or two not too far away.

Together with Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Joey Bishop and Peter Lawford, Dean Martin was a part of the famous Rat Pack, entertainers who brought the once-sleepy little town of Las Vegas to life in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Martin’s name continues to carry magic, some 104 years since he was born as Dino Crocetti in Steubenville on June 7, 1917.

And, it’s appropriate that our area celebrate his legacy during this week’s Dean Martin Hometown Celebration.

The event, which will run Thursday, Friday and Saturday, will feature open houses at the Jefferson County Historical Museum and discounted tours of Historic Fort Steuben on all three days. Thursday will see a performance by Beatlemania Magic at the Berkman Amphitheater and the annual Dean Martin Karaoke Contest at the Spot Bar, an event that traditionally has brought participants from all parts of the globe.

There will be street parties with live music, food and vendors in the 200 block of South Fourth Street on Friday and Saturday, a car cruise Saturday morning and free trolley rides to the museum Saturday afternoon. Martin tribute shows will be held at the Spot Bar on Friday and Saturday nights, with a $10 cover charge both evenings.

Come out and enjoy the events that recall one of our region’s great talents.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.73/week.

Subscribe Today