COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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JULY
July 28- Aug. 2 -- 36th Annual Flying Farmer Fun Fly
With free primitive camping on the site; electric camping available for fee. Showers available, airplane storage available. Contact Adam Henning for details at (507) 227-9522. The event will take place at 21316 300th St., Rushmore. Promoted By: Academy of Model Aeronautics.
July 29 -- Aug. 1 -- Rock County Fair
Wednesday activities at the Luverne fairgrounds Include a free community meal, puzzle tournament & Good Ole’ Plow Boys Lawn Mower Pull at 6 p.m. The midway opens Thursday at 5 p.m., followed by the donkey races at 7 p.m. The Great Plains Tractor Pull is 6 p.m. Friday night with Enduro Races at 7 p.m. Saturday. Enjoy free music by Red Dirt Road on Thursday night, Blue Dirt Road on Friday night with Fun Pianos on Saturday night.
July 30-Aug. 2 -- 43rd Farmers Appreciation Days
The annual summer festival in Lake Park, Iowa. With Market Street Business Night from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday the 30th, Golf Fun Night from noon to 5 p.m. Friday at Silver Lake Country Club and steak night at Gunderson's, and multiple activities on Saturday including a 10:30 a.m. parade, fire department burgers and brats at noon, H-LP Elementary ribbon cutting and open house at 1 p.m., and beer garden open with "She's With Us" at 8 p.m. More at lakeparkia.com.
July 31-Aug. 8 -- 87th Annual Sioux Empire Fair
The location is the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds in Sioux Falls. All national headline concerts take place on the Billion Automotive at 7:30 p.m. and are free with paid fair admission. The grandstand lineup includes: July 31 -- Opening night fireworks at the fair, 9:15 p.m.; Aug. 1 -- Country music star Carly Pearce; Aug. 2 -- The Frye Family Band (10:00 a.m.) and Fiesta Latina (1 p.m.); Aug. 3 -- Rock tribute show by Hairball; Aug. 4: --Rock band Skillet; Aug. 5: --Country artist Rodney Atkins (Ag Appreciation Day); Aug. 6 -- Country artists Cooper Alan and Dylan Schneider; Aug. 7 -- Monsters in the Midway Bulls & Broncs (7 p.m.); Aug. 8 -- Sioux Empire Championship Rodeo.
July 31 -- Passion Project Showcase Event
A presentation from four local high school students from Worthington and Adrian who have been working on a project related to immigration in the community. 7 p.m. at the Kivu Law “Annex” (in the expansion area of Kivu Law that was formerly Main Street Kids) located at 224 10th Street in downtown Worthington. Treats will be served.
AUGUST
Aug. 1 -- Dance 4 Fun event
Doors open at 6;15 p.m. at the Hap Kettleson Community Center in Everly, Iowa, and the dance is from 7 to 10:30 p.m. The band will be Last Resort. Singles and couples are welcome; people may bring snacks to share.
Aug. 1 -- Direct from Sweden
An ABBA tribute band; a free Summer Concerts Series show beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Arnolds Park Amusement Park.
Aug. 3-9 -- Nobles County Fair
Events include the SW MN Dog Show beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, a community burger feed at 6 p.m. followed by the MK5K on Wednesday, the Nobles County Bull Bash at 6 p.m. Thursday, the Great Plains Tractor Pull at 5:30 p.m. and barrel racing at 6 p.m. on Friday, and Worthington Speedway racing with hot laps at 5 p.m. and music by the Varsity Rejects at 9 p.m. Saturday. Find a complete schedule on the Nobles County Fair's Facebook page.
Aug. 3 -- All Comers Track Meet
Hosted by the Worthington Area YMCA; day-of registration begins at 5:00 p.m., with the first events starting at 5:30 p.m. at Trojan Field. This free community event is open to youth ages 2-14 and is an opportunity for kids of all ability levels to experience track and field in a welcoming, encouraging environment. Kids are encouraged to bring their running shoes and join for an evening of fun, fitness. and friendly competition. For additional information, contact the Worthington Area YMCA at (507) 376-6197.
Aug. 4 -- Night to Unite
5 to 7 p.m. at the JBS Field House, Worthington. There will be displays from the Law Enforcement Emergency Response Unit, Southwest Crisis Center, Worthington Fire Department and Sanford Ambulance as well as a K-9 demonstration. Entertainment includes a bouncy house, a kids' activity with Southwest Crisis Center, door prizes for kids, free children's ID kits and music from DJ Barry Roberts. Food will be provided.
Aug. 5 -- Lakefield Library Book Club meeting
Discussing "The River We Remember" by Willilam Kent Krueger, 3 p.m.
Aug. 5 -- 17th annual MK5K Run & Family Fun Walk,
An in-person 5K run or 2-mile walk presented by Leading Edge Credit Union in support of the Southwest Crisis Center and the Mary Kay Foundation. The race/walk takes place during the Nobles County Fair in Worthington, with registration at 6 p.m. and the race/walk at 6:30 p.m. All proceeds will go toward providing emergency safe-housings and other programs of support for those experiencing domestic and sexual violence and their families.
Aug. 6-9 -- Days of Olde
Annual festival in Ocheyedan City Park. Events include: the Little Mister/Little Miss and King and Queen Crowning on Thursday night; Steak Night at The Corner Club from 5 to 9 p.m., a co-ed volleyball tournament starting at 6:30 p.m., a movie in the park at 8:45 p.m. and karaoke at The Corner Club at 9 p.m. on Friday; and a 5K run/walk at 8 a.m., parade at 10:30 a.m., a car show from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. and a mechanical bull from 9 p.m. to midnight Saturday, plus much more.
Aug. 9 -- SAL Antique Tractor Pull
Noon in Okabena.
Aug. 9 -- Slow Cooked Roast Beef Dinner
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sioux Valley Trinity Lutheran Church, 38523 730th St., Lakefield. Adults $15, children 4-10 $5, children 3 and under free, Sponsored by Trinity Lutheran Church LWML and Thrivent Action Team.
Aug. 9 -- Karess and Ryan in Concert
Present by St. Joseph Arts Council; 2 p.m. at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Milford. Free-will offering. Reception follows.
Aug. 12 -- Historic Dayton House Party on the Porch
5 to 7 p.m. at the Dayton House, 1311 Fourth Ave., Worthington. Cash bar featuring Round Lake wines along with beer, soda and water, and Fareway will serve free hot dogs for the grill. Music by Tayis Lien-Onsy; sponsored by Worthington Area Community Foundation.
Aug. 13 -- King Turkey Day Amazing Race
Teams will race against the clock, deciphering clues, navigating local landmarks, and tackling unique mental and physical roadblocks. The first team to cross the finish line with earn their wings with a private airplane flyover the city of Worthington. Check-in begins at 5:30 p.m. at Trojan Field, and the race will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Funds raised will support this year's King Turkey Day festival.
Aug. 14-16 -- 2026 Butterfield Steam & Gas Engine Show
Gates open at 4:30 p.m. on Friday and 7 a.m. Saturday and Sunday at Voss Park, located on the west edge of Butterfield just off Minnesota 60. The show features antique tractors, cars and machinery, as well as a pioneer town and crafts. There will be entertainment in stage Friday night through Sunday, and a variety of foods will be available on the grounds. All are welcome at an open-air church service at 8:30 a.m. Sunday.
Aug.. 15-16 -- Y-Tri
A Kids Triathlon is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. on Aug. 15. This event is open to all kids up to 15 years old. Individuals 15 years of age can choose to do either the kids tri, adult tri or both. Registration is $30 for each athlete competing. A triathlon event for adults will then take place from 8 a.m. to noon on Aug. 16. This is open to individuals ages 15 and older. Participants who don't want to do the full race may create a team of three and choose the event each team member will perform in. Registration is $60 for an individual and $135 for a team of three. For additional information, contact the Worthington Area YMCA at (507) 376-6197.
Aug. 15 -- Hairball
A free Summer Concerts Series show beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Arnolds Park Amusement Park.
Aug. 16 -- Strong Community Corn Roast
People may enjoy the first-ever Y-Tri, a delicious sweet corn meal, a cornhole tournament, bounce houses, live music and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate community, make memories and support the YMCA’s Strong Community Campaign. People may register in advance for the cornhole tournament by visiting ymcaworthington.org, scroll down to "What's Coming Up at the Y" and click on the Cornhole link. For additional information, contact the Worthington Area YMCA at (507) 376-6197.
Aug. 17 -- Jackson Library Book Club meeting
Discussing "What Happened to the Bennetts" by Lisa Scottoline, 1:30 p.m.
Aug. 18 -- Llama Party with Carlson's Llovable Llamas
10 a.m. to noon in Central Park in Jackson and 1 to 3 p.m. at North City Park in Lakefield. All will get a chance to meet the llamas, feed them treats and take pictures. This is a Jackson County Library System program.
Aug. 18 -- Heron Lake Library Book Club meeting
Discussing "A Thousand Splendid Suns" by Khaled Hosseini, 2 p.m.
Aug. 19 -- Heron Lake Library Family Game Night & Color Run
6 to 7:30 p.m. Play outdoor games with the Nerdy Birds and the library board. and wear a white shirt to take part in the color run.
Aug 28 -- United Way of Nobles County Bingo Night
With a walking Taco Meal starting at 5 p.m. until gone for only $7 and then onto Bingo at the Worthington Elks Lodge, 1105 Second Ave,
Aug. 29 -- Worship & Potluck
Presented by Helping Hand Pregnancy Center; for junior high through young adult. School teachers, pastors, church youth leaders and anyone who works with the youth are also invited for a night of games, food, worship and testimonies from local leaders. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. at Chautauqua Park, Worthington.
Aug. 29 -- The Pork Tornadoes
A free Summer Concerts Series show beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Arnolds Park Amusement Park.
ONGOING EVENTS:
Registration is officially open for the King Turkey Day 5K & 10K! Whether you're chasing a new PR or just looking for a fun, energizing way to be part of one of Worthington’s favorite traditions, now’s the time to sign up. This year’s race features a refreshed 5K route, two dedicated cheer zones to keep the energy high and a convenient race-day check-in location right near the starting line. All participants will receive a finisher medal, and with limited spots available, early registration is encouraged. Register at raceroster.com (search for King Turkey Day).
People are encouraged to consider donating to help Nobles County children in grades K-5 to have backpacks and school supplies on the first day of school. Distribution date is Thursday, Aug. 13 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 500 Stower Drive, Worthington. Children must be present to receive their backpacks. People may assist by providing backpacks, colors, pencils, paper, glue and other supplies needed for their specific grade level. Donations may be sent to WPC Backpacks, 500 Stower Drive, Worthington 56187. Backpacks volunteers are also being sought for setup (9 to 10;30 a.m. Aug. 12) and distribution (8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Aug. 13). Call Norma Cook at (507) 350-8465 or Sandy Beckering at (507) 360-5879 with questions.
The Worthington Farmers Market returns on June 2 at the Downtown Pavilion, bringing fresh produce, baked goods and handmade items from local vendors back to the community. For more information — including vendor details, upcoming activities and the schedule of children’s programming — visit the market page at
https://forwardworthington.com/farmers-market/.
Helping Hand Pregnancy Center is hosting a Girls Bible study that will take place from 12:30 to 2 p.m. every Tuesday from July 21 through Aug. 25. Call the center at (507) 372-2111 or email hhpc.ed@gmail.com to join the Bible study. The earlier the registration, the better. Junior high through college age are welcome. Snacks and drinks will be provided.
Weekly Narcotics Anonymous meetings are scheduled for 5 p.m. Sundays, 5 p.m. Tuesdays and 7 p.m. Fridays at 920 Diagonal Road, Worthington. These meetings are for all looking for a consistent support network.
A girls bible study is scheduled for 12:30 to 2 p.m. Tuesdays from July 21 through Aug. 25 at Helping Hand Pregnancy Center, 910 Third Ave., Worthington. Call the center at (507) 372-2111 or email hhpc.ed@gmail.com to sign up. The earlier the registration, the better. Open to junior high through college-age girls. Snacks and drinks wll be provided.
Volunteers needed at Manna Food Pantry
Manna Food Pantry is in need of a volunteer to help hand out meat during the harvest truck that delivers to the pantry approximately at 11 am on the first and third Thursdays of each month. If you are able to help, please contact Linda Sanchez at 507-329-1951.
Worthington City Council Honorary Member
The Worthington City Council is seeking people interested in the inner workings of city government for their Honorary Member program. The Honorary Member serves for three months, attending regular council meetings and participating in discussions. They do not make motions or vote. They attend as able various advisory board and commission meetings, and attend a staff briefing and tour the facilities. They also receive all correspondence directed to City Council, including staff reports and League of Minnesota City publications. There is no monetary compensation, and applicants must be 21 years of age and a resident voter of the city for at least 30 days prior to appointment. Visit the City of Worthington web page here to apply!
You are invited to become a member of the Lake Okabena Improvement Association! The projects would not be made possible without your generous donations and commitment. Find the details on membership dues or renewals here.
Support Worthington Trojan athletes and join the Worthington Trojan Sports Boosters Club. Join the club for $30 per individual/family or $60 per business. Participation does not require being a board member. Make checks payable to Trojan Booster Club; Attention Jessica Nixon, Treasurer; 723 W. Lake Ave., Worthington 56187.
Multiple donations are being sought at American Lutheran Church, including: shampoo/conditioner, soap/body wash, deodorant, toothbrushes/toothpaste, shaving items, feminine products, first aid items, brushes/combs, Kleenex and more, They may be brought to the church office at 915 Winifred St. in Worthington or Love INC at 515 S. Shore Drive in Worthington.
Worthington-Crailsheim International Inc. represents Worthington in an endeavor to foster peace and brotherhood. The partnership is now entering the 76th year with student exchanges from both cities through a large majority of these years. It's only with the support from our community that the committee continues to award a scholarship to one student each year. Monetary contributions as well as host families or even membership on our committee are more than welcome. Visit www.wgtn-crailsheim.org or Facebook group: Worthington-Crailsheim sister-city relationship, for more information. The mailing address is WCII, PO Box 742, Worthington 56187.
Experienced teachers, hands-on Christ-centered learning and a low student-teacher ratio make for a bright future for children at Hi-Ho Preschool. Hi-Ho offers a four-day program for 4-year-olds and a two-day program created especially for 3-year-olds. Learn more by calling (507) 376-4861 or visiting worthingtonchristianschool.org.