RUSSIA — Labor Day is right around the corner and that means it is time for the Russia Homecoming Festival. The annual event is scheduled for Sept. 1-3 with a vast array of activities and entertainment on the grounds of St. Remy Hall in Russia. As always, event organizers promise a weekend of fun, food, and friendship.
Kicking off the event is the 12th annual Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament on Friday, Sept. 1, at 6:45 p.m. Interested players can sign-up in advance by contacting Jay Grieshop or take their chances and sign up 30 minutes before the tournament begins, keeping in mind that seats are limited.
On Saturday, Sept. 2, and Sunday, Sept. 3, the festival runs from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. One of Saturday’s highlights is the traditional outdoor Catholic Mass in the Grotto at 4:30 p.m.
According to Festival Co-Chair Tonya Hammonds, most of the activities are back by popular demand. Back for a second year is the Valley Exotic Zoo, a hands-on petting zoo experience for children and adults, that brings animals to the festival under the care of owners Jamie and Dianna Beneke, of Eaton. Also on hand again this year will be Moeller Brew Barn, providing craft beers on tap.
“With more than 1,200 volunteers rallying to make the festival possible, all events are staffed and ready,” said Hammonds. “We invite everyone to come and spend two fun-filled days with us.”
Hammonds, Co-Chair Nick Fullenkamp, Chair Karen Monnier and Treasurer Jana Francis coordinate the efforts, but it appears that the entire village of Russia is involved. Community and parish support are key to providing such an entertaining and profitable event which seems to grow bigger every year. Over 50 local businesses are listed on the website as donors or supporters.
Activities at the festival include traditional favorites like “Celebrity” Dunk Tank, Kid’s Straw Pile Hunt, Diaper Derby, kiddie tractor pull, and cornhole and dodgeball tournaments for all ages. The 50-50 drawings will be held both evenings in addition to an Early Bird Attendance Drawing on Saturday and Raffle Table Drawing on Sunday. The popular Hearty Mums Sale will begin at at 8 a.m. on Sunday until sold out.
C&S Amusements of Dayton will provide mechanical rides from 5:30 to 11 p.m. on Saturday and 2 to 10 p.m. on Sunday. Presale wristbands are available at Buschur’s Market for $15 perday until Saturday noon. All day wristbands will be $20 at the festival or individual ride tickets can be purchased for $1 each. C&S will also provide carnival games and food trailers.
Speaking of food, the most popular to sample are the barbecue chicken dinners and homemade desserts. Chicken dinners are served on Sunday beginning at 3 p.m. until sold out. The Bake Wheel and Lunch Stand will operate both days.
A Co-Ed Volleyball Tournament kicks off the festival on Saturday morning. The annual Running Raider 5K gets things started on Sunday morning. The Raider 5K is part of the Shelby County Tour and traditionally brings runners from all over the area for a chance to claim the top spot. A one-mile fun run will also be held.
“The Entertainment Tent has a packed lineup to cap off the evenings,” said Hammonds. “With a variety of musical performances from current chart toppers to oldies, there should be tunes for all to enjoy.” Featured performers on Saturday include the Russia High School Band at 6 p.m., Feel N. Lucky the Clown from 6 to 8:30 p.m., Danny Schneible at 7:30 p.m., and a DJ from 9:30 to 11 p.m.
Sunday performers include Crazy Craig Juggler at 4 p.m., the DeMange Brothers at 5 p.m., the Goat Ropers (Mark Sherman and George Epperson) at 7 p.m., and KGB (Kyle Epperson and Jack Langenkamp) at 9:30 p.m. A Lip-Sync Contest will also be held on Sunday afternoon with prizes awarded to the top three contestants.
“The Russia Homecoming Festival gives our community and the surrounding area the opportunity to have delicious food, visit with friends, and enjoy entertainment,” said Hammonds. “It is a weekend we look forward to all summer. Come join us!”
Entry forms and contact numbers to sign up for all competitive events, as well as the schedule of activities and more information, can be found at the festival website at www.russiahomecoming.com.
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