Pioneer Days brings festive spirit to Kalida

KALIDA — Kyle Unverferth is excited for families to take advantage of Pioneer Days and discover all that Kalida has to offer.

The four-day festival will feature musical acts, a car show and the largest parade in Northwestern Ohio from Thursday, Sept. 5 to Sunday, Sept. 8 in downtown Kalida.

“It’s really a community event, even though it benefits the Lions Club and the firefighters who direct it, but it’s the whole community, so there is a lot of pride knowing we’re giving back to the community and helping,” said Unverferth, a publicity committee member for the festival. “It’s about moving forward and getting the firemen what they need, as well as building on our parks.”

Six musical acts will perform throughout the weekend, including Derek Alan, The Jimmy Jack Band, Ruffed Up Sammy and Voodoo Haze, as well as Dangerous Feats of Comedy, a blend of stunts and jokes.

“It is going to feature experts juggling on chairs and doing all sorts of comedic acts,” Unverferth said. “One thing we try to do every year is bring some type of new, free entertainment that hasn’t been around before.”

Pioneer Days will also feature rides, drawings for prizes, a craft show, food shows and a performance by the Kalida High School Band.

Unverferth said there is a little bit for everyone at the festival that raises funds for the Kalida Fire Department and Lions Club.

“We try to make a family-friendly event,” he said. “It’s not just a car show, it’s a family event and there is something to do for everybody. We have a craft show, a tractor pool and quite a bit of events.”

Putting on the event for the 152nd year is a point of pride for the Kalida community.

“Just come out and check it out,” Unverferth said. “I’m sure you’re going to find something that brings you back next year.”

For more information on the festival, including a schedule of events, visit pioneerdays.com.

Reach Jacob Espinosa at 567-242-0399.