53rd Annual
AUTUMN ON PARADE
OCT. 5-6, 2024 |
Welcome to Oregon and Autumn on Parade
Nestled on the banks of the Rock River and surrounded by scenic parks and nature’s beauty, our small town celebrates Autumn in a BIG way. “Whimsical Weekend,” the theme of our 2024 event, promises a mash-up of crowd-pleasing favorites, inspirational art, fabulous food, vintage vehicles, that heart-string tug of walks down memory lane, sprinkled with color catching novelty and fun!
Since its creation in 1970, the heart of AOP has been our Market. Enjoy fresh air, exercise, sights, sounds, and mouth-watering smells while chatting with friends as you stroll the historical Courthouse Square. This unique shopping opportunity showcases handmade, homemade and homegrown items. You’ll find home décor, children’s clothing, jewelry, home baked goods, local honey, produce, artisan products and so much more. Our vendors take great pride in their wares, working hard year-round to bring our visitors diverse, quality options for gift giving to everyone on your list – and a little something for you, too!
A family-friendly FREE Fun Zone features bubble shows, costumed characters, a petting zoo, bouncy attractions, crafts and games to keep the young ones occupied. For safety of the children, this section is ages 10 and younger, in a fenced and monitored area. Lots of memory-making photo opportunities here, so mom and dad, charge up those devices and share those
pics in real time – tag @autumnonparade #autumnonparade2024. We offer a “Sensory Time” on Sunday for young ones who would benefit from dialed back activity space. Local not-for-profit organizations and small business entrepreneurs fill our Food Court, serving up a variety of options to please any palate. Staffed by cheery volunteers, these hard-working folks offer Polish and Italian sausages, grilled pork chops, ribeye sandwiches, kettle corn, hot dogs, brisket and brats, waffle burger combos, pulled pork, roasted corn, chicken sandwiches, Mexican specialties, stuffed baked potatoes ... the list goes on! Funds raised by the efforts of these groups are put back into community projects and service to those in need. A win-win for all!
The Car Show and Antique Tractor Show are held on Saturday at Park East just across the Rock River. Featuring a crazy cool collection of cars and impressive farming vehicles, there is no charge to attend this walk back in time! A complimentary shuttle service is available from the center of town that day to pick you up and bring you back. Bing’s Drive-In will be
on site offering up hot and cold beverages and food reminiscent of the era. Be sure to catch the Tractor Parade through town at 4 p.m.
Chana School Museum, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a restored two-room schoolhouse providing living history programs, and will be open for touring at Park East on Saturday only. This labor of love took thousands of volunteer hours and a lot of donated dollars to bring its historical story back to life. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of backin-the-day “School Days” once you’ve visited this beautiful restoration project. Festival merch is available online through our website autumnonparade.com – the only official outlet for AOP gear. Order early, wear your AOP merch festival weekend, and pose for a picture with Dolly to win AOP swag!
Looking for a little adult down time? Check out our Entertainment HotSpot. Music starts at 1 p.m. and runs until 7:30 p.m. In accordance with state law and for the safety of all, this is a fenced area for ages 21 and older. There is a $5 per person entry fee. An ID is required. Seating is limited, so if your boogie shoes have been retired (sigh), feel welcome to bring a comfy folding chair!
Our Harvest Time Parade promises to be another crowd pleaser. We hold bragging rights for the largest parade in northern Illinois, proudly featuring marching
bands, novelty entertainment, youth groups and floats, as well as hired entertainers – with a smattering of surprises of course! The parade steps off at 1 p.m. sharp, so be sure to grab your food court goodies and find your spot! Refer to the Parade Route Map for best viewing opportunities.
Look for our new festival flags to guide you as you wander, and be sure to keep an eye out for new and novelty festival attractions – a whimsical nod to AOP history and Oregon’s artist colony connection. Follow along on social media for teasers and updates. (Facebook @Autumn on Parade and Instagram @autumnonparade).
We love our town. As we celebrate the 53rd annual event – organized by a small group of dedicated volunteers from its humble start – we want it known that Autumn on Parade comes to life because of the community spirit and pride among Oregonites. Volunteer efforts of family and friends, neighbors and newbies, and the financial and “in kind” support so generously given by local businesses, our city and county officials and governing bodies, and our phenomenal park district are the backbone of AOP.
To sign up as a volunteer AOP weekend, visit autumnonparade.com today!
Be sure to show your support by purchasing tickets for our 60/40 raffle and … Enjoy our “Whimsical” approach to Autumn on Parade 2024 in Oregon on Oct. 5 and 6 – see you there!
Whether you need to get to work, the grocery store, a doctor appointment, or another location in Lee or Ogle Counties, we’ll help you get there!
Debbie Dickson
Petting zoo, bounce houses await at Fun Zone for kids
Bring the kids to visit Autumn on Parade’s Fun Zone, located at North Fifth Street in the Coliseum parking lot and road area. We will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, providing a variety of activities for kids of all ages.
Sauk Valley Kona Ice and Cotton Candy Smiles will be available for purchase both days.
This year’s free fun will
include: Saturday, Oct. 5
Jason Kollum: bubble stations/shows
Miller’s Petting Zoo
Stateline Bounce Houses
Face painting and balloon twisting
Carnival games, crafts and more
Sunday, Oct. 6
Characters 2 Life - Minions
Miller’s Petting Zoo
Stateline Bounce Houses
Face painting and balloon twisting
Carnival games, crafts and more
If your child would benefit from an environment with minimal sounds and crowds, visit during Sensory Time from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, while the parade is happening.
Thank you to the Family Fun Zone sponsors: Circle G Farms & Constellation
Find treasures at AOP Market
Autumn on Parade Market began 54 years ago with seven exhibitors near the historic Courthouse lawn and has grown to over 180 booths!
We are proud our market hosts only handmade, homegrown and homemade items. Join us for blacksmith demonstrations, caricatures, permanent jewelry and artist demonstrations. Longtime favorites will be here too – woodworkers, potters, quilters, sign makers, paint-
ers, flowers, candles and so many more.
Find yummy snacks along the way, like roasted nuts, popcorn, cookies, licorice and candies. New and returning exhibitors await you Saturday, Oct. 5, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 6, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Shop our festival merch at autumnonparade.com and show it off at the market –we’ve even got totes available to carry your new goodies!
2024 Schedule of Events
Saturday, Oct. 5
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Market, Courthouse lawn
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Information Booth, Courthouse Square
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Car & Tractor Shows, Park East
8 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Library Book Sale, 300 Jefferson St.
9 a.m. – Flag-Raising Ceremony, Courthouse Square
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Food Court, Jefferson Street
9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. – Stronghold’s Olde English Faire, 1922 IL Route 2 North; admission fee
10 a.m. to noon – 102.3 Coyote and SuperHits Live Broadcast, Fifth and Jefferson streets
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Ogle County Historical Society Antique Quilt Display, 109 N. Sixth St.
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Chana School Tours, Park East
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Fun Zone, Coliseum parking lot
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Ogle County Historical Society: Open to the Public, 109 N. Sixth St.
1 to 8 p.m – Entertainment HotSpot, 300 block of Jefferson Street; featuring live music and beer garden
4 p.m. – Tractor Parade, Park East to downtown Oregon
Sunday, Oct. 6
8 to 10:30 a.m. – Breakfast, Oregon VFW
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Information Booth, Courthouse Square
8:45 a.m. – Flag-Raising Ceremony, Courthouse Square
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Market, Courthouse lawn
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Food Court, Jefferson Street
9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. – Stronghold’s Olde English Faire, 1922 IL Route 2 North; admission fee
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Fun Zone, Coliseum parking lot
1 to 3 p.m. – Fun Zone Sensory/Quiet Time
1 to 3 p.m. – Harvest Time Parade, downtown Oregon; featuring more than 100 musical, float and novelty units, including the Jesse White Tumblers.
2024 Unit of Honor: Habitat For Humanity
2024 Guest of Honor: is Stan Eden.
Autumn on Parade’s Fun Zone for children is located at North Fifth Street in the Coliseum parking lot and road area.
Food court offers plenty of festival treats
The smell of funnel cakes and kettle corn wafts through the air as you approach the Autumn on Parade food court. No festival is complete without a food court!
Elotes, cider donuts, barbecue … your mouth starts to water as you see all the delicious options, from classic comfort food to more unique festival fare.
We’ve got something for everyone, so you’re sure to find a snack or two to satisfy your cravings. Sample a variety of dishes from many different vendors (some new, many returning), and indulge in some delicious treats at the AOP food court! What snacks will you be on the hunt for this year?
Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6.
AOP Food Court Vendors 2024
Big Man BBQ – Pulled pork, Polish and Italian sausages
Boy Scouts – Hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, baked potatoes
Chow Haul Smokehouse – Brisket, pulled pork, ribs, turkey, chicken, sausages
Farming Heritage – Kettle corn
Hazel’s on the Go – Hot and iced coffees, cinnamon rolls, spiced apple banana bread, fruit smoothies, hot cider and cocoa
Headon & Sons – Rib-eye and chicken sandwiches, potato and macaroni salads
Hector’s Cocina – Tacos (ground beef, steak, chicken), quesadillas, tostados, burritos, chips and salsa, beverage variety
Los 3 Molcajetes – Burritos, elotes, tamales, tortas, quesabirria
LuLu’s Roasted Corn – Mexican roasted corn, churros, maugoe salad, fresh squeezed lemonade
Main Squeeze – Freshly squeezed flavored lemonades and Boost energy drinks
M & M Chops – Angus steak burger, bacon cheddar burger, butterfly pork chops, rib-eye Oregon Knights of Columbus – Funnel cakes, pop, water
Oregon Lions Club – Brats, pork chop sandwiches, pop, water
RS Concessions – Italian ice, pretzels, nachos
The Waffle Wagon – Bang-bang/classic/ maple bacon/Nashville hot chicken and waffles; dessert waffles; cheesecake on a stick
Bing’s Drive In – Car Show at Park East/ Saturday Only – Breakfast items, burgers, hot dogs, sloppy Joes, coleslaw, assorted hot and cold beverages
Fun Zone
Cotton Candy Smiles – Fluffy cotton candy treats
Kona Ice – Flavored shaved ice, bottled water
The festival food court offers a variety of treats including funnel cakes.
1 Berg's Crafty Creations refurbished frames, windows, etc
2 Veterans Assistance Commission of Ogle County Veterans info
3 Hmong Tapestry Needleworks wall hangings, purses, bags,
4 College Street Creations handmade wood gifts & home decor
5 Forever by M + D permanent jewelry
6 Ross, Smith ................. large prints, framed & mounted photos
7 Get Felted Up .... upcycled fabrics made into mittens, gloves, etc.
8-9 CraftHouse101 wood signs, porch signs, resin drink coasters
10 Albrecht, Rene wreaths, silk florals, wood slab signs, etc.
11 Dip'N Good Dipsgourmet dip seasoning mixes; dip cooler bowl
12-13 Loving-U-Sew bowl cozzies, adult & baby bibs
14 Country Gems hand-crafted jewelry
15 DI's Everlasting Blooms dried Flowers
16 Generations Creations .. t-shirts, signs, jewelry & home decor
17 Twine & Grace ......... clothing & accs for mama's & their littles.
18 Diggity Dawg Bakery all-natural dog treats, pet bandanas, etc
19 Sara Lou Earrings handmade acrylic & wood earrings
20 Wildflower 61061 Oregon hawks appearel, mommy & me
21 West Coast Body Co body products and handcrafted jewelry
22 Borneman, Linda cookies, snacks, breads, crafts
23-24 First & Main barnwood bird houses, decor, wax melts
25 Honey Bee Good Apiaries honey, jams, relish, salsas, breads
26 Johnson Custom Laserworks ...... cutting boards, tumblers, hats
27 Box O Shadows ...... candles, soaps, sprays, salves, jewelry, etc.
28 Grinner Fur Co. fur: hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, trinkets
29 Paw Printz 3D 3D printed & hand painted items
30 HomeSpun Goodz vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, candy
31 Big Red Cloth garments with bleaching technique & patches
32 Miz Bee Haven local honey and hand crafted soap
33 Pewter Dragonfly bath & body: soap, bath bombs, etc.
34 The Hooker's Knot . crocheted items: keychains, hats, scarves
35 Make Joy Felt .... cards, gift-tags, notepads, stickers bookmarks
36 Hygge Aroma soywax candles, macrame items
37 Alost Creations tumblers, shirts, hoodies, 3D prints, etc
38 Cornerstone Embroidery embroidered clothing, blankets, etc
39 Abbott Crafts coffee cups, tumblesrs, kids cups, & more
40 P&T Jewelry handstamped rings, bracelets, & necklaces
41 Salty Provisions salts & seasionings w/ norwegian sea salt
42 Loris Creations ............. sublimation tumblers, keys rings, etc
43 Crafty Cat Creations ........ hand crafted string art & home decor
44 Laconic Foods ... olive oil, rare greek honey, olives, greek herbs
45-46 Berkshire & Way graphic tees, tumblers, jewelry, etc
47 Wild Style Design Company face painting, henna tattoos, etc
49 Wild Prairie Creations cutting/charcutierie boards, macrame
50 I Dig Coffee fresh roasted whole bean coffee
51 Sue's Stuff expertly sewn items
52-53 Bobbi's Country Catering breads, candy, cookies, pies, etc
54 Boneafied Honey ............ honey, honeycomb, infused honey,etc
55 WiscoWare ...................................................................... pottery
56-57 Ewe and Me Acres pies, cookies, breads, jams, meat, etc
58 HardKnots Woodworking wood turned items
59 Stoned & Wired wire wrapped pendants, earrings, etc
60 AM and PM Hemp Farm CBD & THC for people & pets
61 Heartbeats by Elisabeth fairy light creations in gel wax & photo
62 Brink, Diane 18" doll clothes, painted rocks, painted bricks etc
63 Ferguson, Roseann ... broomcorn, squash, succulents, wreaths
64 Houghs Maple Lane Farm...pure maple syrup & syrup products
65 Alexander, Linda farmhouse/vintage/rustic style decor items
66 Pink Forest Boutique farmhouse style wood signs & more
67 Capes, Pamela pallet wood pumpkins, scarecrows, etc
68-69 Kyle Shater oak furniture, decor
70 Spirit Bombs .......... surprise bath bombs, shower bombs, etc
71 Pink Forest Boutique ........ farmhouse style wood signs & more
725-73Wilma Sanders dish towels, doll clothes, wood items
74-75 Benson, Lynn indoor/outdoor wood decor
76 Bazard, Judy pumpkins, cloth paint treated decorated for fall
77-78 Donna Mann, Addy & Co. baked goods, t-shirts and gifts
79 Softouch Woodworks PO box banks, fancy wood boxes
80 Hooked by M & M crocheted hats and seasonal dog/cat hats
81 Go Nuts cinnamon sugar roasted almonds, pecans, cashews
82 Sunset Hill LC ... laser crafts, christmas ornaments, jewelry, etc.
83 Millie Moo's Elderberry Syrup ............organic elderberry syrup
84 Black Cat Candle Company dessert candles, candles, etc
85-86 Pine Creek Forge blacksmith products and demos
87-88 M & A Acres honey, beeswax candles, turned wood items
89 Simple Life Designs handmade clay, resin, mini metal jewelry
90 Mosey's Macrame macrame plant hanger,wall hanging& more
92 Ms Mint artisanal popsicles, retro style wire twist headbands
93 All in the Family ........ felt magnets, crochet, mickey ornaments
94 Custum Creations Vinyl
95 Scent Sational Scents
96-97 Phase 3 Crafts ..............
98 Leigh Alan Design ..... reusable
99 Cdex Creations
102 Cindy's Crocheted Creations
103 Sweet Autumn Eclectic
104 Brea's Custom Creations
105 Crochet Lab by Lauren
106-107 Mydeye lifestyle
108-110 J & D Stones
111 Midwest Mixes .. olive
112 The Licorice Guy ................................
113 Goldstick, Mindy egg
114 J & S Crafts solid
115 Seebach's Pumpkins
116 Pirate Mom Soapworks
117-118 T.Hardy Pottery &
119 Triple T Creations
120 Artistic Designs ... matted
Vinyl wood signs, lanterns, etc no burn room fresheners, aroma beads
.............. wood decor, tumbler, decor, wreaths reusable fabric bags, scrunchies, & more resin art & keepsakes
Creations crocheted hats, scarves
Eclectic artisan candles and wax melts, etc
Creations tumblers, tees, keychains, etc
Lauren plushies, dinosaurs, bees, etc lifestyle products for pet lovers of all kinds engraved stones olive oil bread dips, bbq rubs, veggie di p, etc
....................................... gourmet licorice egg art, tie dye sweatshirts, kitchen towels solid surface, cutting boards, signs wooden pumpkins, gourds, straw, & Indian corn
Soapworks handmade vegan soap(bar & liquid) & Art Co pottery, woodworking, etc clothes
matted & framed photography, jewelery, etc
121-122 Grill + Garden metal yard art, weathervanes, outdoor art
124 Dave's Corner by Halgren Creations wooden games
125 Made On Market ................... crocheted items and wood crafts
126 Three Angles Family Farm ....................... lavender products
127 Dollface unique & traditional raggedy dolls, etc
128 Bark About It animal treats & chews, catnip toys, pet coats
129-130 Mitts n More fleece blankets, wool mittens, wood items
131-132 You Never Know Crafts wreaths, barn wood decoration
133-134 Weathered and Worn by M + R wooden signs & furniture
135 Nothin But Sunshine beaded and resin jewelry
136 Simple Comforts Soy Candles soy candles & wax melts
137 J.Byrd Creations.... earrings from clay, wood, leather and resin
138 The Whimsical Bumblebee ... jewelry, bookmarks, suncatchers
139 Whats New halloween, christmas, lawn art, wind chimes, etc
104-141 Hermes Popcorn popcorn
142 Zax Beeswax beeswax candles, soaps, honey sticks, honey
143 Hometown Local printed graphic tees + sweatshirts, etc
144 E & R Candles soy candles & tarts, baby blankets, etc
145 Jen's Sunshine Farm fabric coil bowls
146 GC Lavender by Gallery's Choice .......... lavender and glass art
147-148 White Pine Mercantile lavender wraps, signs, etc
149-150 Larson's Country Market, LLC bakery items
152-153 The Candle Farm soy wax candles & wax melts
154 Stormy Girl Creations epoxy & sublimination tumblers, etc
155 Bender Barnwood home decor from repurposed wood
156 Cummins' Crafts ......................... cloth crafts & wood crafts
157-159 Cause for Paws Rescue ............... dog or pet-related items
160 Pinecreek Enterprises rustic, live edge shelves, stoos, tables
161 Pretty Little Clay Company polymer clay earrings
162 Simply Knot Just Macrame macrame items, wood crafts
163 Connie's Calico Creations baked potato bags, bowl buddies
164 Grateful Fields tumblers, key chains, pens, resin items
165 The Eclectic Jewel handmade, repurposed & vintage jewelry
166 Earthy Emporium ........... herbal/medicinal teas, bath/spa items
167 Howie’s Crafty Creations ......... pens, coasters, bookmarks, etc
180-181 HOME Scents LLC wax melt brittle, car diffusers, etc
182 Unstated Apparel midwestern lifestyle apparel
183-184 Pallet Jax Signs LLC handmade signs
185-186 Heilman’s Wooden Creations folk art, holiday items
190-191 Rage Goods home fragrance & body products etc
192 Dave’s Coffee Cakes various flavors coffee cakes
193 Sweet Girl Signs floral arrangements
194 Sew Blessed ...... scrunchies, headbands, embroidered clothing
195 Twisted Willow/T2D2 Creations ............ wood items, pens, etc
196 Back to Earth palm & tarot readings, body products, etc
198 Twinkled Twig boutique style accs for girls
199 Malbran Creations crochet plushie animals
200 Don’s Wreaths & Things wreaths, swags, centerpieces etc
201 Terisa Craft Studio sewing times & paper crafts
202-204 Sweet Stitches Market men & women clothing, etc
205-206 BearMoon Soap ............ soaps, lip balms, bath bombs, etc
A big thank you to 2024 AOP sponsors
We can’t say it enough – the Autumn on Parade festival would not be possible without the generous support and efforts of our community.
Special thanks to the 2024 Presenting Sponsor, E.D. Etnyre, who has chosen top dollar to support the Autumn on Parade festival two years in a row! This community investment allows the AOP Committee to generate more smiles, support and memories. You make our festival bigger and brighter.
Here are the 2024 Autumn On Parade sponsors:
Presenting
E.D. Etnyre
Entertainment HotSpot
CIMCO Recycling
Diamond
Martin & Co.
Fun Zone
Circle G Farms
Constellation
Strolling Entertainment
City of Oregon
Premium
Harvard State Bank
Johnson Oil
Oregon McDonald’s Stillman Bank
Tractor Show
Benesh & Sons
Kunes Auto Group
Woods Equipment
Festival Level
Central Bank
Compeer Financial
Father & Son Pizzeria
FN Smith
Franklin Street Pub
Graphic Arts Express
KSB Medical Services
Midwest Disposal
Tipsy Hog
Supporting Level
BearMoon Soap
Bundles and Brand LLC
Chile Pepper
Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home
Fischer’s Inc.
Hawk Auto Wash & Storage LLC
Hunt Club
Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers
M. Mongan Decor
Oregon Healthcare Pharmacy Services
RE/MAX of Rock Valley
River’s Edge
Rock River Title LLC
Scott Stephens State Farm Insurance
Smith, Birkholz & Morrow Family Law
InKind Donations
Americold
Blackhawk Steak Pit
Cork & Tap
Game Day Apparel
Hagemann Horticulture
Hidden Timber Gardens
Jen’s Artisan Breads
Kaufman’s Super Valu
Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers
InKind Support Services
A.R.E.S.
City of Oregon
County of Ogle
Hands on Oregon
Jim Massey/Massey Electric
KJH Ventures
Kunes Country of Oregon
LRS
Ogle County Solid Waste Management
Oregon Fire Protection District
Oregon Police Department
Oregon School District
Oregon Street Department
Oregon Park District
St. Mary Church of Oregon
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church
We are grateful for the ongoing support of the City of Oregon, County of Ogle, Oregon Fire Department, Oregon Police Department, Oregon School District 220, Oregon Street Department, and Oregon Park District. The diligence and kindness of these agencies provide safety and comfort for the many who visit our community throughout this event weekend.
Autumn on Parade is a walking festival. Handicap parking is available. A free shuttle is provided Saturday only to the car/tractor shows and Olde English Faire.
Visit autumnonparade.com for more details; follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Pictured (from left): Erika Davis, Etnyre Purpose Council representative; Kala Hoversten, AOP treasurer; Ganesh Iyer, Etnyre president and CEO; Rich Wilsie, vice president of sales and operations; Destini Benesh, AOP vice president; Mindy Klenz and Bob Grace, Etnyre Purpose Council representatives.
Harvest Time Parade kicks off at 1 p.m. Oct. 6
The 53rd annual AOP Harvest Time Parade, themed “Whimsical Weekend,” steps off at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6.
The parade will feature entertainment by Jesse White Tumblers and Crystal Lake Drum Strikers, as well as local marching bands, scouts, unique acts, local businesses and more.
This year’s Unit of Honor is Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County and the Guest of Honor is Stan Eden.
We look forward to seeing spectators of all ages fill the streets!
Thank you to E.D. Etnyre, Autumn on Parade’s 2024 Presenting Sponsor!
Stan Eden selected Autumn on Parade Guest of Honor
Who says a farmer is just “a guy on a tractor?
Not any of the folks in our agricultural community, especially those connected to Autumn on Parade.
Stan Eden, long time Ogle County resident, has been chosen for the second time as AOP Guest of Honor and will ride tall and proud on one of his favorite 4-wheelers up front and center of the 2024 annual Harvest Time Parade.
“Everything Stan has done and continues to do throughout our community – be it related to farming and crops, the county fair, his church, AOP, the Oregon VFW, the list goes on, makes him more than deserving of round two of recognition!,” said Debbie Dickson, president of Autumn on Parade.
This humble guy never talks of himself or of his daily behind the scenes support throughout the community. With a BS in General Agriculture, a master’s in Extension Education, and an advanced certificate in Education, all through the University of Illinois, Stan returned to Ogle County after serving our country in the armed forces, where he invested himself in the rebuilding of a war-ravaged South Korea. He is a life
member of VFW Post 8739 and actively participates in their Color Guard.
Stan received numerous awards throughout his 42-year career recognizing his outstanding service and leadership. A few on the list include: National Association of County Agricultural Agents Distinguished Service Award, 30-year service award from Ogle County Farm Bureau, Ogle County Farm Visit Day Charter Member and 25-year Participant Award.
He continues to volunteer
for farming programs including the Ogle County 4-H Group, the Ogle County Fair Association, the Oregon FFA Alumni Association, and is a long-time AOP committee member and reigning Antique Tractor Show chair.
In his spare time, Stan enjoys photography, gardening, antique tractors and spending time with his grandkids.
Be sure to wave and give Stan the thumbs up as he rumbles past you along the parade route on Sunday, Oct. 6.
Habitat for Humanity is 2024 Unit of Honor
“Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.” This is the mission of this year’s AOP Unit of Honor, Habitat for Humanity. Their vision further describes “A world where everyone has a decent place to live.”
Ogle County Habitat was established in 2002, is operated locally, and led by a board of directors comprised of Ogle County volunteers. This dedicated and loyal to their cause group of citizens are passionate about their service toward the betterment of living conditions of those who struggle.
Families are chosen on a case-by-case basis and commit to investing sweat equity to improve their housing situation. Funded by grants, public donations, fundraising efforts, and Gifts of InKind professional labor and materials helps ease the burden of large mortgages for the family chosen to receive this blessing.
These components are mixed with tremendous volunteer efforts which have built homes through the years in Byron, Forreston, Mt. Morris, Oregon, Polo,
and Rochelle. 2024 marks their 15th build, this time in Davis Junction. Critical home repairs are provided through their “Brush with Kindness” program.
“Autumn on Parade is proud of this community-minded group of volunteers. We are grateful as well for their many years of volunteer partnership assisting with AOP traffic control, security and parking lot monitoring during our event weekend,” said Destini Benesh, AOP vice president and parade chair.
“We consider it a huge win-win scenario when two entities such as ours come together for the good of the whole. It also allows Autumn on Parade the opportunity to donate back to a worthy cause and pay it forward in continuing service to our community.”
Be sure to let these folks know their efforts are seen and appreciated as they pass by your parade seating area on Sunday, Oct. 6.
Tractor show pays tribute to agricultural heritage
“Ogle County is one of the state’s leading producers of agricultural crops and livestock,” said Tractor Show show chairman, Stan Eden.
Our tractor show is a nod toward this history and farming heritage, a leading force in our local economy. Whether you like John Deere green or Farmall red, the 31st annual Autumn on Parade Antique Tractor Classic and Gas Engine Exhibit should be just what the tractor doctor ordered.
The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, in Oregon Park East. And don’t miss the tractor parade at 4 p.m.
Past shows have featured more than 50 outstanding exhibits representing Oliver, Farmall 1H, Minneapolis Moline, Allis Chalmers, J.I. Case, Fordson and John Deere. Eden said there also will be gasoline engines, machinery and lawn tractors on display.
Recognition and awards will be presented on-site. Be sure to join the raffle and silent auction, then watch as tractors from the show drive through Oregon’s downtown area.
There is no entry fee; register with Stan Eden by calling 815-994-1191 or send email to edensre@msn.com.
Food provided by Bing’s Food Truck will be available for purchase.
Thank you to Steve Benesh & Sons, Kunes, and Woods Equipment for sponsoring the Tractor Show!
Lots of cool cars on display
Foundation for Focus House will host its annual Car Show during Autumn on Parade on Saturday, Oct. 5, at Oregon Park East.
Rare and vintage cars from all around the area can be seen on the lawn next to the historic Chana School Museum.
Foundation for Focus House is a 501c3 nonprofit that raises money for youth receiving services at Focus House in Rochelle. Focus House offers residential and outpatient care to youth involved in the Juvenile Justice System, serving more than 200 youths each year from Ogle County and the surrounding area.
To register for the Car Show, or to find more Focus House events, visit www.FoundationforFocusHouse.com or contact Jeni Hardin 815-562-5881.
Thank you to all of our sponsors and supporters – the programming at Focus House could not provide these services for our youth without YOU!
HotSpot is the place to be for live music
The Entertainment HotSpot will host three live bands on Saturday, Oct. 5.
Dirty Fishnet Stockings will kick things off from 1 to 2:30 p.m. with their rockabilly tunes.
Next is the all-female band Sheez-It who will perform rock favorites from 3 to 5 p.m.
The Jimmys will headline the event and show off their high-energy blues band. The will take the stage from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
This is a 21+ fenced area; $5 entry fee with photo ID is required.
Show up early for some giveways.
The Entertainment HotSpot is made possible by generous donations from CIMCO Recycling, with Tipsy Hog providing beverage service. AOP thanks you for your support!
The 31st annual Autumn on Parade Antique Tractor Classic and Gas Engine Exhibit will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, in Oregon Park East. The tractor parade will begin at 4 p.m.
Earleen Hinton file photo
This 1955 Ford Mainline, Aussie UTE, was one 150 vehicles on display at the Focus House Foundation Car Show held during the 2023 Autumn on Parade at Oregon Park East. The car is owned by Tom Drummond of Rockton.
60/40 raffle benefits AOP
Support Autumn on Parade by purchasing a 60/40 raffle ticket. The 2024 total pot reached FIVE figures! One lucky winner takes 60%, 40% goes toward festival funding. You need not be present to win, must be 18+ to claim prize.
Get your lucky ticket(s) in advance!
Visit one of these local businesses that will host sales through Oct. 4: Alpine Chiropractic, Cork & Tap, Harvard State Bank, Idle Hour, JTI Salon & Spa, Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers, Oregon Snyder’s, Red Stone Salon & Spa, Shell Station, Stillman Bank and Tipsy Hog.
Order all your Autumn on Parade merchandise now
Official festival merch?
Yes! Your weekend just got a little more “Whimsical!” The annual Autumn on Parade festival logo deserves a spot in your wardrobe, and so does our 2024 theme graphic!
Order now to support local and shop in style with official AOP shirts and totes. Visit autumnonparade. com to place your order and have it shipped to you.
Stronghold hosts Olde English Faire
The Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center will host the 2024 Olde English Faire on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 5 and 6.
The castle provides a magical backdrop for live Renaissance performers, medieval artisans, craft vendors, a food court and a beer garden.
The Olde English Faire is a family-friendly event. Dress up or come and enjoy the music, performers, food and vendors in a unique and beautiful setting while supporting Stronghold.
Grounds open at 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. The cost is $10 per person, $5 for children younger than 12, and free for ages 5 and younger.
All proceeds from the event go to support Stronghold Summer Camp and provide scholarships for campers. Stronghold Castle or Stronghold Center is located north of Oregon atop the limestone bluffs along the Rock River.
Designed by Maurice Webster, it was built between 1928 and 1930 by Walter A. Strong, then owner and publisher of the Chicago Daily News. The castle was built as a summer home for his wife, Josephine, and their five children. In 1928, Strong bought 360 acres of wooded property north of Oregon, which included a limestone bluff overlooking the Rock River.
Strong hired Josephine’s brother, architect Maurice Webster, to design a house on the bluff. The original concept was to build a simple barn and silo structure, but it quickly grew into something resembling a castle, with 16 bedrooms, nine baths, eight fireplaces, gargoyles and secret passageways.
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