Hamburg, Iowa, with a population of 873, grew close to two times its population on Saturday during the 2024 Popcorn Day Celebration where over 1,800 people were there to support this amazing little town.
It was a gorgeous 80-degree day with no precipitation and a nice breeze.
The park was filled with 60-plus vendors.
The parade route of six blocks in total but was lined up with the bands and parade participants. The parade was approximately 12 blocks long and filled with six marching bands and loads of community pride.
Jon Tiemeyer, Charlie Dovel, and Pat Kahue were recognized by Fire Chief Dan Sturm for their years of service with Hamburg Fire Department and congratulated them on their retirement from the department.
Representative David Sieck attended the event and offered a heartfelt speech giving recognition to the over fifty 2011 and 2019 city workers during the two flood events. Sieck was also proudly riding in the parade.
The Hats Off to Hamburg Hat Contest was put together by Hamburg Hometown Pride. The Winner in the lady’s fanciest hat division was Hallie Ferguson with her fresh flowers picked from a family garden. The men’s winner for funniest hat went to Paul Bennett with his mother Chris Bennett modeling his hat for him. The winner in the most hometown category went to Dave Mincer. The two winners for the kids’ division were: Ryker Dankoff (black cowboy hat) and Porter Dam (teal cap).
The announcer for the parade was Erica Stephens. Leading the parade was the Hubert Woodward Legion Post 156. Grand Marshals were Henry and Helen Martin and Mayor Harry Adams.
Also riding in the parade was president of the Hamburg Kiwanis Judy Holliman.
“This was one of the best Popcorn Days we’ve ever had,” said Holliman. “The weather, the support from neighboring communities, the coordination of all the volunteers and members was outstanding. Thanks all for making a day for all to enjoy in Hamburg, Iowa”.
The crowned Queen and Princess were honored on a float in the parade: Queen Harlie Willis and Princess Olivia Apperson- Casteel. Also riding on the float were the other two princesses Rowan Mcreery and Eliana Doebelin.
The parade float winners for 2024 were First Place Agrivision, 2nd Place First Interstate Bank, 3rd place Hamburg Community Schools.
A total of six amazing middle school bands, high school bands and flags participated in the 2024 Hamburg Popcorn Day Parade. Several class reunions showed up with floats and held reunions during the weekend.
A huge shout out to those who made this event possible.
Kudos to the Kiwanis who have been a huge part of this event for many years. A huge shout out to the Hamburg City employees Jarod Coy, John McNeese, Kamron Block and Brogan Alley.
Thanks also to the following committees: Organizers of the Market in the Park and the vendors were Kelley Cooper, Makayla Oakes, Jessica Kuhns, Sarah Phillip and Erica Stephens. Special thanks also to Jessica Kuhns and Elaine Howard who were parade organizers. Frog Jump Contest committee was Luke and Jessica Barrett and Cassie Gilbert. In charge of Kids games were Sonja and Paycee Holmes. All this hard work did not go unnoticed. Also, a special thanks to the Hamburg Boosters Tuesday Leseberg, Cara Adams, Kyla Tiemeyer, Jennifer Thompson and Nicole Matheson who worked diligently all day at the ballfield with activities and all the businesses and families who worked hard and extra hours to help.
Arbor Bank provided a real hit with the youngsters with afternoon games and a foam buster!
See everyone again in 2025!
Article information submitted by Teresa Crecelius.
