Make plans now to attend the 26th annual Swamp Fox Festival on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2015. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII and we want to remember and honor those who served in all branches of the military. We also want to celebrate all who have established roots here in Marion. “70 Years of Branches and Roots” symbolizes the history of Marion and our commitment to being one of the best communities for families to call home.
On Saturday, a variety of events will take place in and around City Square Park including a 5k run/walk, a pancake breakfast, and the always popular Swamp Fox parade, a new exhibit at the Marion Heritage Center, and sidewalk sales in Uptown Marion.
This year’s festival is also proud to coincide with the Fall Marion Market in City Square Park, coordinated by the Marion Chamber of Commerce. The market will feature more than 50 market vendors with seasonal produce, artisan items, and food options along with children’s activities and musical entertainment.
Saturday afternoon the fun moves to Lowe Park for more food, live music and various family activities including BINGO, children’s games, and garden events. Music will be provided by Airwaves and PastMasters. Dinner will be served by the Linn County Cattlemen, Ramsey’s, Kettle House Bakery, Allen’s Apple Orchard and more. A special tribute to local World War II veterans is planned for 8:30 p.m., the grand fireworks finale will take place at 8:45 p.m.
Make plans now to take part in this community celebration.
event schedule
Registration Information
5K & Little Fox Miler
The Swamp Fox Festival 5K Run/Walk, sponsored by Farmers State Bank, is set for Sept. 26 at 7:30 a.m. Enjoy a slightly modified route this year with line-up on 5th Avenue between Marion City Hall and Vernon Middle School. Prizes awarded to the first overall male and female finishers. Active or former military service men and women receive a $10 discount. Register by Sept. 1 for $20 or by Sept. 17 for $25, dri-fit shirt included. Registrations also accepted up to the day of the event, however there is no shirt guarantee.
The Little Fox Miler, a one-mile race especially for kids, returns in 2015. Register by Sept. 17 for $10, which includes a t-shirt and finisher medal. Late registration does not guarantee a shirt.
Find course maps and online registration at www.corridorrunning.com. Registration forms also available at Marion City Hall, Lowe Park or Thomas Park.
Parade
Registration forms are now available for the Swamp Fox Parade, sponsored by Linn County REC, University of Iowa Community Credit Union and Marion Hy-Vee, which will take place at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26. Festival organizers strongly encourage floats that display patriotism or incorporate branches and roots. Entry forms can be found here or at the Parks and Recreation offices at Lowe or Thomas Parks and are due by Sept. 9. Cash prizes will be awarded in a number of categories. Registrations will not be accepted the day of the parade.
