While July had most people diving into summer fun, the 1861 Club made a different kind of splash—deep cleaning, polishing floors, and making sure every inch of the space is in tip-top shape! Why? Because when you walk into the 1861 Club, we want you to feel that it’s not just event-ready—it’s top-tier, start-to-finish, no-detail-too-small: Ready.
In addition, one sweet little project was in full swing—Salt Water Taffy! With nearly 10,000 bags assembled right here in the 1861 Club, our assembly line was powered by an all-star team of volunteers and board members who gave their time (and a few sore wrists and feet to prove it) to help bring back a beloved Kansas State Fair tradition. Be sure make the hard work worth it by getting stuck on Kansas State Fair Salt Water Taffy this September—it’ll be available at the 1861 Club during the Kansas State Fair, in addition to the Official Kansas State Fair merchandise booth.
Once the floors were gleaming and the taffy was packed, Maddie Burns, the 1861 Club Manager, jetted off to New Orleans—but it wasn’t for beignets and jazz (okay, maybe a little of that too). She’s representing 1861 Club at the International Association of Venue Managers VenueConnect Conference. This national gathering of venue pros is where trends, tech, and best practices take center stage—and Maddie has gained insights that will help create even more seamless, thoughtful, and standout experiences for clients and guests.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate celebration, or private event, just know: we’re already thinking one step ahead to make your day even better.
With the Kansas State Fair around the corner, the 1861 Club is looking as sharp as ever. We can’t wait to welcome you back to the Coolest Club You Never Had to Join!
About the 1861 Club
The 1861 Club is a flexible, lodge style event venue located on the Kansas State Fairgrounds and operated by the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. For most of the year it operates as a high-end venue for weddings, special and corporate events, and activities. During the Kansas State Fair, it is transformed into a climate-controlled food, beverage and entertainment venue for fast fine dining and entertainment experience for all Fair attendees.
Funds raised at the 1861 Club are put back into projects which improve the Kansas State Fairgrounds, these improvements are enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year. So, enjoying the 1861 Club during the Fair and year-round supports the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation’s mission: To further the renovation, construction, preservation and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds.
