Cologne’s Glad Days to sprout for 23rd year

Just like the flower that comes up each year, Glad Days is coming up in Cologne this week, July 25-28, for its 23rd year.

Glad Days started as a way to recognize the history of the Gladiolus flower that that was bred by the Lins family of Cologne who were recognized nationally with awards for their work, also to celebrate community and encourage residents to plant flowers, spruce up their yards, take pride in the community and make it more attractive.

Today it’s a full four-day event with a flower and garden contest, of course, but also much more.

The event begins Thursday, July 25, with flower contest judging, a Cologne market featuring craft vendors and food trucks, also a new event called “puzzles and guzzles,” a competition that involves teams of four with beverages racing to put together a Glad Days puzzle.

On Friday, there are other new events, including a kids drive-in movie with youngsters invited to decorate their own cardboard box car to win prizes. Also, remote control RC car racing, kids fest with games, bounce houses, splash pad, touch a truck and more, start of an age 14 and under wood bat baseball tournament, free hot dog dinner, and “Glad Days has Talent” open karaoke.

Saturday’s events include a full slate of activities including BBQ contest, kids pedal pull, “Fur Frenzy” party with your pup at the Cologne dog park, kids foam party, and an ‘80s social hour before the feature musical event of the evening Ladies of the 80s.

There is also live music every other day of the community event.

Glad Days closes Sunday with its popular tractor cruise and show, more music and a Sunday Funday cornhole tournament.

For a full schedule, go the Glad Days Facebook page.

Next up for Cologne

The celebration in Cologne doesn’t end there. This year Cologne also is host to the Region 7C Baseball Tournament which will bring in players and fans from the surrounding area to compete for spots in the state amateur baseball tournament. Dates are Aug. 1-4 and Aug. 8-11. The Cologne Hollanders will be filling volunteer shifts for food and beer sales and ticket takers.

Groups, organizations, and individuals are encouraged to sign up...a great way to get involved in the community, and meet new people! Volunteers receive a free meal from The Shack per shift. Call Julie at 612-419-0505 or Kristi at 612-269-0825 to sign up.