'We're back'

Hartley's Summer Celebration isn't holding back this weekend.

The four-day party returns July 29-Aug. 1 after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event features a full lineup of fun events for the entire family to enjoy.

"We're back and that's pretty exciting," said Summer Celebration Committee member Rachel Wilson. "We're looking forward to everyone coming out and seeing what we have planned."

Things kick off tonight with a tiny trike ride at Community Memorial Health Center followed by game night at Club 288 and an outdoor movie at Neebel Park. Friday night features a beer garden, meal, bingo, horseshoe and teen volleyball tournaments, and a free dance with DJ-CnC Productions from 7-11 p.m. Interstate Cruisers will also be performing at the Hartley Community Center at the same time.

"We wanted to offer something for people who may not prefer a DJ, so we brought in the band," said Wilson.

Saturday is the big one. A packed schedule will greet guests starting bright and early with a 5K fun run/walk at 7 a.m. The parade kicks off downtown at 10:30 a.m., and then things head to Neebel Park for a beer garden, food, sand volleyball and bags tournaments, kids' games, silent auction, drum line performance and burn out contest.

New this year is the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show. The performance features wood-centric fun where lumberjacks show off their skills in crowd-pleasing fashion. Two shows are planned Saturday at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m., with one on Sunday at 11 a.m.

"We think people will really like the lumberjacks and we're happy we got them," Wilson said.

Things wrap up Saturday night with a dance under the tent sponsored by the fire department. Farm Rock will perform from 8 p.m.-midnight.

Sunday's short schedule includes a community worship service, quilt raffle drawing and omelet breakfast in addition to the second lumberjack show. Wilson said the Summer Celebration Committee was excited to see everyone.

"We're always thankful for our sponsors and we hope everyone who comes out has a great time," she said.