All the planning, preparation and hard work is being finalized for the 2024 Hamburg Popcorn Day celebration next weekend.

Hamburg Popcorn Day began Sept. 30, 1961, when Art Vogel, President of Vogel Popcorn, currently ConAgra, wanted to recognize the farmers of the community and surrounding areas who grew popcorn.

Popcorn Day has happened every year since the 60’s, outside of the year 2020, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The celebration even transpired during the devastating flood of 2019 to keep morale up and help the community during a tough time.

Vogel was a dedicated member of the Kiwanis, a global organization of member-volunteers who are dedicated to changing the world, one child and one community at a time.

The Hamburg Kiwanis is the oldest Civic Organization in Hamburg at 101 years and going strong.

Hamburg Kiwanis is very instrumental in supporting its community in many ways. There are approximately 10 members in Hamburg Kiwanis.

On Popcorn Day 2024, 50-plus vendors will fill the park, including food trucks.

Entertainment for all ages will be available during this day.

Some of the activities are Market in the Park, kids’ games such as frog jump, little kids’ tractor pulls, face painting, and FCRH rock painting. There will be activities for kids and adults at Clayton Sports Complex (ball field), a Show & Shine Car and Tractor show, Elvis at the Colonial Theatre, Scatter Joy Acres Mobile petting zoo, Southeast Nebraska Band in the park, and a teen dance with TCB DJ in the park. ConAgra will be popping popcorn and handing it out free all day in front of Stoner Drug on Main Street.

It truly takes a village to plan this one-day event. Hamburg Hometown Pride, Kiwanis and many volunteers and organizations are to be commended.

Thousands of people have been known to make their way to Hamburg that day including class reunions meeting during this time. Folks will come from Iowa, Missouri and Nebraska who love grand celebrations and parades.

The parade which is planned by Hamburg Hometown Pride is adorned with marching bands with six or more schools joining in the parade line up and competing for prize money. Floats also compete for cash prizes, which brings about many great entries and families working together to make their float the best.

Grand Marshals are voted on by the Kiwanis, with nominations being entered throughout the year.

Watch for next week’s issue for the introduction of the Grand Marshalls for the 2024 Popcorn Day Parade.

Article information submitted by Teresa Crecelius.