The month of January 2026 set an exciting and meaningful tone for the new year at the 1861 Club. The venue welcomed a wide range of events that showcased its versatility, elegance, and deep connection to the community. From weddings and holiday celebrations to fundraisers, educational gatherings, and major civic events, the 1861 Club was proud to serve as a gathering place for memorable moments and important conversations.
What a way to begin the new year than by celebrating love. January opened with the beautiful wedding reception of Karlee and Weston, a truly special occasion that reflected the joy and excitement of a new beginning. Hosting weddings is at the heart of what the 1861 Club does, and it is incredibly meaningful that so many couples trust our venue to be part of the most important day of their lives. Karlee and Weston’s celebration was a perfect reminder of why the 1861 Club continues to be a sought-after destination for weddings of all styles and sizes.
January also continued the festive spirit of the holidays, as several organizations gathered at the 1861 Club for holiday parties and celebrations. Hutchinson Regional Physicians Network, IdeaTek, Kansas Ethanol, and Members Mortgage Services each hosted events that brought colleagues together to reflect on the past year and celebrate shared success. These gatherings highlighted the Club’s ability to seamlessly transition from elegant formal events to lively social celebrations, creating a welcoming atmosphere for every group.
Community engagement was front and center with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber Breakfast, which featured the annual State of the City Address. With more than 350 people in attendance, this event underscored the 1861 Club’s role as a premier venue for large-scale civic gatherings. Local leaders, business owners, and residents came together to hear about the city’s progress and future plans, reinforcing the importance of connection and collaboration within the community.
The 1861 Club was also honored to host the Buhler USD 313 Foundation Fundraiser, an event dedicated to supporting education and investing in the future. Fundraisers like this reflect the Club’s ongoing commitment to giving back and providing a professional, welcoming space for organizations making a difference.
In addition to celebrations and fundraisers, January included an educational presentation hosted by Stroberg Soil Solutions. This informative event helped customers make thoughtful decisions about farming practices, soil restoration, and long-term sustainability. It was a powerful example of how the 1861 Club serves not only as a place for celebration, but also as a hub for learning, innovation, and meaningful dialogue.
Alongside these events, January was an especially busy and exciting time for wedding tours. The holidays are a season filled with proposals, and the 1861 Club welcomed numerous newly engaged couples who are now beginning to plan their weddings. The Club’s team provided multiple tours for couples considering dates in 2026, 2027, and even 2028. Seeing so many couples envision their future celebrations within the walls of the 1861 Club is both humbling and energizing.
As the new year gets underway, the 1861 Club is proud to share that it is actively booking weddings and events into 2028. January 2026 was a strong reminder of the Club’s role as a trusted venue for life’s most important milestones, community gatherings, and professional events. With a full calendar and an enthusiastic team, the 1861 Club looks forward to another year of unforgettable moments and meaningful connections.
The 1861 Club Team
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.
