Washington County Economic Development

Pony Express Festival
2026-08-29 08:00 - 2026-08-30 17:00 (America/Chicago)
Pony Express Festival — Hanover, Kansas
The Pony Express Festival is an annual celebration held at the Hollenberg Pony Express Station State Historic Site near Hanover, Kansas. This historic festival honors the legendary Pony Express mail riders and the crucial role this region played in the short-lived but iconic mail service of the 1860s. The Hollenberg Station is the only original Pony Express station still standing on its original site and serves as a living testament to frontier history.
Typically held in late August, the festival runs from mid-morning into the afternoon and features a variety of period demonstrations, historical activities, and family-friendly fun that bring the spirit of the Old West to life. Attendees often enjoy a pulled pork lunch, an ice cream stand, and interactive experiences that highlight pioneer life and the riders’ adventurous mail delivery routes.
A central part of the celebration is the mochila exchange, symbolizing the transfer of mail bags much like the original Pony Express riders did as they raced across the frontier. The event fosters appreciation for the courage and endurance of those early riders while offering educational insights into this unique chapter of American history.
Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for a fall outing, or simply curious about Kansas’s frontier heritage, the Pony Express Festival provides a memorable glimpse into the past in the heart of historic Hanover.
Dates: Last Weekend in August

Palmer Labor Day
2026-08-30 - 2026-09-01
Palmer Labor Day — Palmer, Kansas
The Palmer Labor Day celebration is a cherished annual community festival held each Labor Day weekend in the small town of Palmer, Kansas. This festive tradition brings together locals and visitors to enjoy a classic small-town holiday filled with activities, fun, and family spirit.
Centered around Labor Day weekend, the event features one of the most competitive co-ed softball tournaments in the region — a highlight that draws players and fans alike. Alongside the athletic action, the weekend includes a variety of activities such as a fishing tournament, gun show, and a parade, making it a fun and engaging experience for all ages.
Food trucks and live music add to the festive atmosphere, giving attendees plenty of chances to relax, socialize, and enjoy great food and entertainment. There’s something for everyone—from competitive events and community gatherings to casual fun and holiday camaraderie.
Whether you’re participating in events or simply enjoying the holiday weekend with friends and family, Palmer Labor Day captures the welcoming, community-oriented spirit of rural Kansas and is a great way to celebrate the end of summer.
Dates: Labor Day Weekend

Highway 36 Treasure Hunt
2026-09-18 - 2026-09-20
Highway 36 Garage Sales / Treasure Hunt — Kansas
The Highway 36 Garage Sales, also known as the Highway 36 Treasure Hunt, is a popular annual fall event that turns U.S. Highway 36 into one of the biggest roadside shopping experiences in Kansas. Held every third weekend in September, this unique treasure hunt stretches over 400 miles across northern Kansas, linking dozens of towns from Elwood to St. Francis in a massive series of antique, estate, and garage sales.
Over the course of a weekend—typically Thursday through Saturday—shoppers and bargain hunters follow maps published for participating communities to find sales filled with antiques, collectibles, household goods, vintage items, tools, décor, and other hidden gems. Maps and Google-mapped sale locations are made available starting Mid – September, helping visitors plan their route and discover treasures from small towns along the highway.
Beyond the thrill of the hunt, the event also showcases the charm of Kansas’s rural communities. Each participating town joins in the fun, providing visitors with opportunities to explore local shops, historic sites, eateries, and community personalities along the scenic U.S.-36 corridor.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a weekend browser, or a road-trip enthusiast, the Highway 36 Garage Sales offer a memorable autumn adventure through the heart of small-town Kansas.

Washington Fall Fest
2026-09-20 | Washington County, 214 C St, Washington, KS, 66968, United States
Washington Fall Fest — Washington, Kansas
Washington Fall Fest is a lively fall community celebration held each September in Washington, Kansas. This seasonal event brings together families, car enthusiasts, and community members for a day of autumn fun, classic cars, friendly activities, and small-town charm.
One of the centerpiece attractions is the Fall Fest Car & Truck Show, where vintage and modern vehicles line the streets around downtown Washington for visitors to admire. Participants can register their cars, enjoy friendly competition across multiple classes, and take part in fun prize drawings.
Beyond the car show, the festival offers food vendors, kid-friendly activities like inflatables and games, raffles, and other fall-themed fun. With something for all ages, Fall Fest captures the seasonal spirit and brings the community together for a memorable day celebrating autumn in northeast Kansas.

Holidays in Hanover
2026-12-01 08:00 - 2026-12-31 17:00
Holidays in Hanover — Hanover, Kansas
Holidays in Hanover is a festive seasonal celebration that shines each December in Hanover, Kansas, blending small-town charm with holiday spirit and community togetherness. This event, often dubbed A New Twinkling Tradition, creates a magical atmosphere where lights, music, shopping, and family-friendly activities usher in the holiday season for residents and visitors alike.
The celebration typically unfolds in early December and includes a variety of activities that highlight the charm of Hanover in winter. Downtown streets sparkle with holiday lights and decorations, while local vendors and makers line North Street with booths offering handmade gifts, seasonal décor, and festive treats — perfect for holiday shopping and supporting small businesses.
Families can enjoy children’s crafts, holiday games, Christmas Bingo, and letters to Santa at community hubs like the Knights of Columbus Hall, and don’t miss the chance to meet Santa himself, whose arrival adds that classic holiday excitement. A centerpiece of the evening is the town’s Christmas tree lighting, where neighbors gather around a beautifully decorated tree — often a freshly chosen local cedar — to sing carols and celebrate the season together.
Holidays in Hanover is more than just an event — it’s a heartfelt community tradition that captures the warmth, nostalgia, and joy of the holidays in rural Kansas. Whether you’re browsing festive booths, sipping a warm drink by the lights, or sharing moments with family and friends, this special celebration truly embodies the holiday spirit.
