March is for Memories! @ the 1861 Club
March was a busy and exciting month at the 1861 Club, filled with growth, celebrations, and plenty of laughter. Weddings & Event Prep We welcomed many future couples through our doors for venue tours, and it’s been so exciting to see so many beautiful weddings...
Now Hiring at 1861 Club: Event Assistant
We’re looking for a part-time Event Assistant to help bring events to life at the 1861 Club. This is a hands-on role during events, mostly in the evenings and on weekends, especially during our busiest seasons. You’ll help supervise and support event staff, assist...
Hats and Horses Set for May 2, 2026 at the 1861 Club
Hats & Horses Returns May 2, 2026 – A Luxury Derby-Inspired Fundraiser Supporting the Kansas State Fairgrounds Hutchinson, KS – The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation invites the community, business leaders, and Kentucky Derby enthusiasts to an unforgettable evening...
Seeking Next Executive Director of the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation
Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation Hutchinson, KS Build the Future of a Rapidly Expanding and Hands-on Organization The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is seeking a dynamic, relationship-driven leader to serve as its next Executive Director. This is a unique opportunity to...
New Job Opportunity: Programs and Events Coordinator
The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation (KFF) is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Programs & Communications Coordinator to support the execution of our events, communications, and ongoing foundation operations. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working...
Deadline Extended for the 2026 Kansas State Fair T-Shirt Contest!
We’ve seen strong interest in the T-shirt design contest, and we know first-hand this time of year can be a busy one. To give more Kansans the chance to take part, we’re extending the deadline and continuing to spread the word! Here is a look at the Extended Timeline:...
Liquid Aloha Lookback: 90s Revival Pics and More!
The Liquid Aloha Series: 90s Revival All Hat No Cadillac 90s Country Concert was a hit! With 400 people attending, it was one of the biggest nights of country music Hutchinson has seen outside of the Grandstand during the Kansas State Fair. The energy was electric,...
Shank’s Take: A Leap of Faith That Paid Off for Hutchinson
This past week, I had occasion to attend the February breakfast meeting of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce at the 1861 Club. As 100 of Hutchinson’s business leaders gathered, Chamber President Debra Teufel spoke briefly about business expansions...
Around the Grounds: The Encampment Building – Part One
If you’ve spent any time on the Kansas State Fairgrounds, you likely know the Encampment Building. It’s a familiar landmark for many fairgoers and community groups, but the name itself often raises a simple question: Why is it called that? The answer goes back nearly...
Hats and Horses: A Celebration of Derby Elegance Supporting the Kansas State Fairgrounds
Get ready for an unforgettable experience of southern charm, Derby excitement, and community spirit at the Foundation’s luxury fundraising event, Hats & Horses, taking place Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the 1861 Club on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Inspired by the...