The Kewanee Chamber of Commerce is set to spotlight its original Ambassador Club members as parade marshals for the 2025 Hog Days Parade. This recognition comes as a tribute to five decades of dedication and organization by these individuals. Scheduled for August 30, 2025, the parade remains a centerpiece of the community’s end-of-summer celebration. Those wishing to take part in the event have until August 18th to register. The Chamber has emphasized the historic role played by the Ambassador Club, aiming to honor their legacy in a parade expected to attract large crowds and foster local pride.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the parade committee that first joined forces in 1976 to revive a fading festival procession. Formed by local business leaders in 1973, the group initially focused on promoting community spirit, debuting the Outstanding Citizen Award with Gust “Brick” Lundberg as its first recipient. With rumors swirling about moving the Hog Days festival after attendance waned, these dedicated volunteers stepped up to organize the parade. Their efforts proved so successful that the tradition has continued, becoming one of the area’s largest annual events. The committee’s legacy honors both the founders and the enduring spirit of community celebration.
The original lineup of the Ambassadors, formed in December 1973, featured a collection of 18 dedicated members, including Roger Black, Keith Bracken, Art DeCabooter, Ron Doran, Lester Eastman, Robert Field, James Fuhr, Ron Heal, Elmer Hill, Ralph Huggins, Irv Kelman, Roger Kent, Joe Loomis, Bob Lund, Bob Meyer, John Spets, Dean Stoner, Steve Sturm, and Gus Zimmerman. This group soon welcomed Jim Golby, who joined in February 1974.
Entries are now open for the 2025 Kewanee Hog Days Parade, set for Saturday, August 30th, at 2 PM, rain or shine. The Kewanee Chamber of Commerce is offering a fast and easy online registration option this year. This year’s whimsical theme, “Pigs Just Want to Have Fun!” encourages participants to get creative with their entries. Celebrating a major milestone, the parade will feature the 50th lineup from the Ambassador Club. The annual event promises lively floats, bands, and local spirit, drawing participants from across the region.
Candy and giveaways must be handed out—not tossed—and entries need to be decorated to reflect the theme. Political involvement is limited to one vehicle per party and per candidate. The parade caps at 125 entries, so organizers recommend securing a spot soon, with the deadline for entry being the close of business on August 18th. Registering online only takes a couple of minutes! Participants are encouraged to register online. You can register online or download and print an entry form and mail or deliver it to the Kewanee Chamber of Commerce at 113 East Second Street, Kewanee, IL 61443.
