Washington County Economic Development

Palmer Labor Day
2030-08-30 - 2030-09-01
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

Pony Express Festival
2030-08-31 08:00 - 2030-09-01 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
