It's kind of a pig deal

Organizers of Hartley's Summer Celebration are hoping attendees squeal with delight this weekend.

On tap is a full schedule loaded with events for the whole family. Highlighting the list is a performance by the Pork Tornadoes on Saturday evening, which has folks buzzing with anticipation.

"They're a pretty popular cover band and have a large following," said Summer Celebration committee member Rachel Wilson. "We're planning on a really big crowd."

The band's swine-centric name gave this year's event its theme – "It's Kind of a Pig Deal."

"We thought it would be a fun idea to incorporate it throughout the schedule," Wilson said. "We're really excited about our pig theme because it's something fun and different."

Things kick off Thursday night with the Hartley Health & Fitness Center's inaugural 5K Glow Run and 1K Glow Fun Walk, which will take illuminated participants on a route at dusk beginning at the fitness center.

"That's new and a change of pace from the traditional run/walk," Wilson said. "It should be fun seeing people dressed up and glowing around town."

Other pork-related events dot the schedule Aug. 1-4. On Friday, the Hartley Lions Club and Iowa Pork Board are encouraging people to "pig out in the park" with a meal featuring brats, hotdogs, pork burgers and sides. Also that evening, Hartley will crown its first-ever Little Miss Pigtails and Mr. Pork Chop.

"We're looking forward to that and we thought it would be a cute way to incorporate something new for the young kids," said Wilson.

Back again on Friday night is the free foam party with DJ Metro Machines.

"That went over really well last year and kids are looking forward to it again," Wilson said. "There will also be a outdoor market silent auction, teen basketball tournament and horseshoe tournament that night for the older crowd."

Saturday's lineup is the busiest, kicking off bright and early with Yoga In the Park at 7:30 a.m. Other events that morning include the Masons' pancake feed, Bloody Mary bar at the Stoplight Lounge and the parade at 10:30 a.m. Entrants are encouraged to make their floats pork themed.

Other events on Saturday include a quilt show, outdoor market and silent auction, food vendors, Kids Corner attractions, SuFuDu drumline, music performances under the tent, sand volleyball and cornhole tournaments, sing-along at the cemetery chapel, and a burnout contest.

Additionally, the Parents of Daycare group will be hosting a Pizza, Pub and Puzzles contest prior to the Pork Tornadoes' concert.

"It's going to be a busy, fun day and we're hoping for great weather and an awesome turnout," said Wilson.

Things wrap up on Sunday with a community worship in the park, omelet breakfast at the Legion, Bloody Mary bar at the Stoplight Lounge and an all-vehicle fun run starting at the Stoplight Lounge. Additionally, a quilt show will be held at the Patch-Eeten House Museum and three days of free swimming will wrap up at the pool.

Wilson encouraged people to turn out this weekend and enjoy themselves.

"We look forward to seeing other people looking forward to Summer Celebration," she said. "There are a lot of families that are coming home this weekend for this event because there's so much for the whole family. We're hoping everyone can find something to enjoy."