ODON – The oldest continuous festival in the state kicks off on Thursday in Odon.
The 138th Annual Odon Old Settlers Days will step off with a parade through downtown Odon Thursday night at 6 p.m. Gina Wagler was named this year’s Grand Marshal. The parade will line up at 5:30 p.m. at the old school grounds on John Poindexter Street.
Prior to the start of the parade, those interested in submitting paintings, photography, baking, crafts, floral exhibits, and more, can drop off their entries at the Floral Hall from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for judging. Both children and adults are invited to showcase their talents. Once judging is complete, the Floral Hall will be open from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.
Free inflatables for children also start at 6 p.m. each night and at 8 p.m., there be a performance by Cody Ikerd and the Sidewinders on the main stage at 8 p.m. Due to limited seating, those wanting to enjoy the entertainment should bring lawn chairs.
Bingo, sponsored by Ketcham Memorial will take place at 2 p.m. on Friday.
Performing Friday night will be Terry Lee and the Million Dollar Band.
“We will also be doing a drawing for a Blackstone Grill each night and on Saturday we will also do the drawing for the golf cart,” said Bart Neiswanger, a member of the Lions Club and the one who organizes the annual celebration. “We will be selling tickets for the golf cart, which are $20 each or six for $100, during the festival. It’s really like two tickets in one. If you are present, you could win one of the Blackstone Grills and if you do, you still have a chance to win the golf cart. Drawings are at 9 p.m. each night.”
Saturday Chalk Up the Town, the chalk art contest will start at 10 a.m., the cruise-in and car show will begin at 2 p.m. and the baby show will start at 6 p.m. Rosie and the Rockabillies will perform Saturday night.
There will be lots of great food all weekend and other events during the three-day celebration.
