Blog

April @ the 1861 Club: Full Hearts, Full Calendar, and a Whole Lot of Community

April was one of those months that reminds us exactly why the 1861 Club exists — bringing people together in meaningful, memorable ways. From heartfelt moments to high-energy celebrations, every event added something special to our space. We began the month with the...

Finalists Announced – Vote Now on the 2026 Kansas State Fair T-Shirt Contest!

The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is hosting the third annual t-shirt design contest for the 2026 Kansas State Fair. Online voting will take place on Facebook until May 31, 2026. It has been wonderful to see the creativity and passion for the Kansas State Fair through...

Call to Post for Hats and Horses 2026

Saturday, May 2 is the big day! We’ve been looking forward to Hats and Horses and the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby all year.  The weather has warmed up, flowers are blooming and the horses are chomping at the bit. We expect to see examples of incredible...
1861 Club Dedication and Ribbon Cutting

1861 Club Dedication and Ribbon Cutting

On Thursday, Sept. 4 at 1:30 PM Mary McCurry, Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation Board Chair welcomed a crowd of approximately 200 people on the Kansas State Fairgrounds as they gathered the day prior to the opening of the 2024 Kansas State Fair to celebrate the dedication...

Get Your T-SHIRT Here!

Get Your T-SHIRT Here!

Today is opening day of the Kansas State Fair – and the first stop everyone needs to make is the “Official” Kansas State Fair Merchandise Booth. It’s located on Grandstand Avenue next to the Lair-Steckline Interactive Water Fountain. It is here where you will find the...

1861 Club – Your Christmas Party Place!

1861 Club – Your Christmas Party Place!

If you're looking for a venue to hold a Christmas party for your office, family, or friends, the 1861 Club is the perfect choice. The 1861 Club is currently accepting bookings in November, December 2024 and January 2025.  For more details on what may be included in a...

Join the 1861 Club FRIENDLINESS TEAM!

Join the 1861 Club FRIENDLINESS TEAM!

New this year – the Foundation needs volunteers as a part of the 1861 CLUB –FRIENDLINESS TEAM! These volunteers will greet the fairgoers and help them feel comfortable and welcome in the newest venue on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. They will provide a quick overview...

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