Marion County is planning more than a dozen events
between Memorial Day and Labor Day, including:
• June 5-7 — Chingawassa Days, Marion
In its 18th year, this annual festival features family activities and entertainment for all ages, including Friday and Saturday night concerts by regional and national musical acts, and food and drink vendors. More information is available at (620) 832-3425 and visit www.chingawassadays.com.
• June 13 — Classic Cruisers car show, Hillsboro
Participants judge each other’s restored vehicles in this annual event that is in its 17th year. Registration is 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Memorial Park. An awards ceremony is at 3 p.m. One can of food and a $15 entry fee goes to Marion County Toy Run and Marion County Food Bank. Food and drink are available in the park.
• June 20 — Bluegrass at the Lake
This free event begins with a $100 open stage competition from 4 to 6 p.m. Tallgrass Express String Band will play at 6 p.m., and Serenity String Band will take the stage at 8 p.m. Performances will be on an outdoor stage in the lake beach area, but will move to the lake hall in case of inclement weather. Concessions including beer will be available.
• June 20 — Harvey House Picnic, Florence
A meal is served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the lawn of a historic site. More information is available at (620) 878-4296.
• June 27 — Garden Tour, Marion
Starting at 8:30 a.m., event patrons can expect five stops, including intricately landscaped yards and elaborate flower displays. Tickets must be purchased at the library. For more information, call (620) 382-2442.
• July 4 — Fourth of July Festival, Peabody
Approaching a century of celebration, the 94th annual celebration has the largest ground display of fireworks in Kansas. Attendees can expect a carnival, parade, food vendors, horseshoe tournament, and children’s games prior to evening fireworks. More information is available at (620) 983-2174 and www.peabodyks.com.
• July 4 — Redneck in Ramona
Learn the true meaning of “redneck” or, at least, a quaint town’s interpretation of it. Attendees often dress the part. A redneck run begins at 8 a.m., a redneck-themed parade starts at 6 p.m., and fireworks launch at dark. Expect to see lawnmower races or take part in a three-on-three basketball tournament. More information is available at (785) 965-7110.
• July 8 — Community hog roast, Burns
Volunteers have served roasted pork and a plethora of sides at this annual July event for 13 years. More information is available at (620) 726-5857.
• July 22 to 25 — Marion County Fair, Hillsboro
Catch a rodeo, demo derby, or antique tractor/truck pull, or watch children compete in “mutton busting” or a pedal-tractor pull in the 85th year of this event. A parade, carnival, and 4-H contests are popular events. More information is available at (620) 381-0109 and www.marioncountyfairks.org.
• July 31 to Aug. 2 — Threshing Days, Goessel
Those with an interest or passion for antique farm equipment might like to check out this four-decade tradition. More than 100 exhibitors from a seven state area will present demonstrations and displays. Gates will open at noon Friday. Three square meals of traditional Mennonite food are served each day. A parade on Main St. will start at 10 a.m. Saturday. More information is available at www.wheatco.org
• Aug. 1 — Run For Your Momma, County Lake
Participants can choose to run in a half marathon or a 5k fun run/walk. Cash prizes will be awarded to top finishers. Strollers and dogs are welcome. The half marathon will start at 6:30 a.m. The 5k fun run/walk will start at 8 a.m. Moe information is available from mopsofmarion@outlook.com.
• Sept. 5 to 7 — Labor Day celebration, Florence
Saturday’s entertainment begins in the evening with Matt Engels Band. Street dance starts at 9 p.m. with music by the Callahan Band. An old-fashioned baseball game Sunday evening will be followed by fireworks. A parade at 11 a.m. Monday caps the weekend. More information is available at (620) 382-6434.