No shortage of hometown fun awaits across the True Dakotan coverage area
If you're looking for ways to make the most of July, you won't have to travel far.
Communities across the True Dakotan coverage area are preparing for a month filled with hometown celebrations, community fundraisers, family activities and summer traditions. Whether you're watching fireworks, taking part in a poker run, cheering on turtle races or enjoying the roar of tractors, there's something happening nearly every weekend.
The festivities begin with Wessington Springs' Fourth of July celebration, running July 2-4. The three-day celebration features the Foothills Rodeo, parade, fireworks, turtle races, youth activities, golf tournament and dozens of family-friendly events. (See the adjacent story and the complete schedule on Pages 5-6.)
The fun continues Saturday, July 11, when the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 14 Poker Run returns to Wessington Springs. Registration begins from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Pin Twisters Bowling Alley, with kickstands up at 10:45 a.m. All vehicles are welcome. The day also includes a free-will community supper beginning at 5 p.m., musical entertainment on Main Street at 6 p.m. and a 50/50 drawing. The event is held in memory of Michial Brodkorb. The following weekend, Wessington Fun Days returns July 17-18, offering activities for all ages. Friday evening features a Wolsey-Wessington Preschool fundraiser supper and bingo at the American Legion. Saturday's lineup includes a pancake breakfast, color run/walk, turtle races, parade, inflatable games, pickleball tournament, museum tours, power wheel races, pie and ice cream social, bean bag tournament, pork loin supper and karaoke. A 12U baseball tournament will also take place Saturday, with food and beverage vendors serving throughout the day.
July wraps up Saturday, July 25, with the Alpena Fire Department Annual Tractor Pull, one of the area's favorite summer traditions. The event begins at noon with a kids pedal pull and car show before tractors take center stage at 1 p.m. Spectators can enjoy stock, speed limit and open classes, along with garden tractor pulls, live entertainment, concessions and family activities. Admission is free, with proceeds supporting the Alpena Fire Department.
Whether you're making plans for one weekend or all four, July offers plenty of opportunities to explore neighboring communities, support local organizations and create lasting summer memories.