Festivities begin Thursday in Sutton, run Friday and Saturday in Edgar
If it feels like there’s something happening every weekend in Clay County right now, that’s because there is.
As summer settles in across the county, communities are preparing for a season of festivals, parades, fireworks, reunions and hometown traditions. While the calendar is filled with events throughout the summer, two celebrations will kick off one of the busiest stretches of the season: EdgarFest and Sutton’s Dugout Days.
Taking place at about the same time, both events have become annual traditions that draw residents, former residents and visitors back to their communities for weekends filled with activities, entertainment and hometown pride.
EdgarFest returns June 26 and 27 with two days of family activities, food, entertainment and community fun. This year’s theme, “Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday,” reflects the patriotic spirit that will be on display throughout the weekend. From the parade and fireworks to community meals, games and activities, the event showcases the volunteer spirit and community pride that continue to define small-town Nebraska.
Starting just a few days earlier, Sutton will begin its annual Dugout Days celebration, scheduled for June 25 through 28. This year’s theme, “From Founding Fathers to Hometown Heroes,” honors both the nation’s history and the local residents who have helped shape the community through service, leadership and volunteerism. Over the years, Dugout Days has grown into one of the largest community celebrations in the area. The annual event brings together current residents, former residents and visitors from across the region. Class reunions, family gatherings and community activities fill the schedule as people return to Sutton for a weekend of celebration.
For many families, these events mark the unofficial start of summer’s community celebration season. Lawn chairs appear along parade routes. Volunteers spend months planning activities. Former residents make plans to come home. Children create memories while parents and grandparents reconnect with friends and neighbors.
The celebrations also highlight something that remains special about Clay County. While every com munity has its own traditions, the events are powered by local volunteers who dedicate countless hours to planning, fundraising, organizing and ensuring that each celebration is successful.
And while EdgarFest and Dugout Days may be taking center stage right now, they are only the beginning.
In July, Deweese will host its annual Fourth of July celebration featuring the community’s Soap Box Derby, fireworks and activities throughout the day. Clay Center will celebrate Independence Day with a street dance, parade, community activities and fireworks as part of its America 250 celebration.
Later in the month, Harvard Days returns July 19 through 25 with a full week of activities. One of the most anticipated attractions will be a traveling circus on July 20, something that has become increasingly rare in small-town America and is expected to draw families from throughout the area.
The summer celebration season will continue with the Clay County Fair, opening July 24 and bringing together 4-H and FFA exhibitors, volunteers, businesses and fairgoers from across the county for one of Clay County’s most beloved traditions.
From Edgar and Sutton to Deweese, Clay Center and Harvard, the weeks ahead offer plenty of opportunities to gather with neighbors, celebrate community traditions and enjoy the best parts of small-town living. For Clay County residents, summer celebration season is officially underway.
