Everton Volunteer Fire Department Announces Annual Fireman’s Festival for June 27

By: JARROD McGLOTHEN

The Everton Volunteer Fire Department is gearing up for a full day of food, live music, and family entertainment with its annual Fireman’s Festival scheduled for Saturday, June 27, 2026. The event will run from noon until 11:30 PM at the fire station located at 5495 S State Road 1 in Connersville.

For the members of the department, the festival is not just a major community tradition, but a vital part of keeping the station running.

“The festival is our biggest event of the year, and the support we get from the community makes a massive difference in our operations,” said Everton Fire Chief Chad Gronning. “As a volunteer department, fundraisers like this allow us to maintain our equipment, keep up with training, and ensure our guys have what they need to respond safely when a call comes in.”

A central highlight of the day is the traditional fried chicken dinner, which will be served from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM for $15. Throughout the afternoon and evening, the event will feature a wide range of attractions, including a dunk tank, a variety of local vendors, concessions, a beer garden, pull tabs, and a 50/50 drawing.

Live entertainment is split between the afternoon dinner hours and the late-night crowd. Local artist Nick Winters will perform during the dinner service, followed by the main act, The Backdraft Band, taking the stage for the evening entertainment.

For younger families, the festival is introducing a brand-new Kids Zone operating from 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM. For a $5 wristband, children get unlimited access to all kid-friendly activities, which include a Nerf zone for nerd wars, inflatable battle axes, bounce houses, and various kids’ games.

“We really wanted to make sure there was something for everyone this year, which is why we expanded the Kids Zone with the Nerf area and bounce houses,” Gronning said. “It’s a family event, and we want people to come out, have a good meal, enjoy the music, and just have a great time supporting the department.”

Adult community members can also participate in several gaming events scheduled for the evening, including a large basket raffle and a poker game running from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Additionally, the department will host its annual gun raffle drawing the night of the festival. Gun raffle tickets are currently available for purchase prior to the event and will remain on sale until sold out or until the drawing takes place.

Mark your calendars for a great day supporting local volunteer firefighters. For more information or to purchase raffle tickets ahead of time, reach out to any member of the Everton Volunteer Fire Department.