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...
Haha Hutch: A Slam Dunk Night of Comedy!
What we do know: Brett Riley used to shoot hoops for Hutch High back in the day. What we don’t know: If he actually made a basket. What we do know: He’s a slam dunk when it comes to comedy! While all the March Madness action is happening on the court this month, we’ve...
February @ the 1861 Club: Weddings, 90s Country & Big Celebrations!
February was one for the books at the 1861 Club! We kicked off the month with a beautiful wedding that set the tone for a month full of celebration. There is nothing sweeter than seeing our venue filled with love, laughter, and happy tears. Concert Night...
Announcing the 2026 Kansas State Fair T-Shirt Contest!
You may remember it from last year, it's quickly becoming one of the most anticipated competitions of the year: The Kansas State Fair T-Shirt Contest! If you have a little bit of creative spark, love the Kansas State Fair, and like winning prizes — this contest is for...
It’s Back: Everything Weddings and Events Show at 1861 Club – February 22, 2026
Back by popular demand! The Everything Weddings and Events Show at 1861 Club is getting ready to kick off the second year of creating connections on February 22, 2026. With the success and popularity of last year’s event, we are aiming to set the bar even higher this...
14 Reasons You Can’t Miss the Liquid Aloha Series: 90s Revival
The 90s Revival: All Hat No Cadillac 90s Country Concert is just over one week away! The reasons we listed below are great, but you already know you want to go, so just get the tickets now. 😎 90s Revival Tickets 1. 90s Country is Timeless 90s country is the golden era...
Generally Speaking: Looking Forward to Fairly Big Milestones
Updates from Kansas State Fair General Manager, Bryan K. Schulz, IFMG, CFE Generally Speaking: Hello and Happy New Year from the Kansas State Fair Board of Directors and Team! We are just over seven months away from the start of the 2026 Kansas State Fair — September...
Shank’s Take: Planting Decisions for the Future of the Fair
This past month, I participated in a meeting of the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation (KFF) Board of Directors. As a member of this board for the past 10-years, I am always impressed that our leadership team takes whatever time is needed to cover all topics under...