Kewanee Prairie Chicken Arts Festival Thrives Despite Stormy Weather and Volunteers are Needed

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Stormy skies couldn’t dampen spirits at the Kewanee Prairie Chicken Arts Festival, as the community pressed on with festivities Saturday, July 19, 2025. Although some activities were cancelled, highlights continued in Berrien Park, including antique fire truck rides, the bustling flea market, and the always-popular Kewanee Police Dunk Tank, which featured Kewanee High School football players. Awards are set for 4 PM in the Rotary Tent, while WQAD Beast handed out free ice cream cone tickets from McDonald’s to kids. Organizers are now seeking volunteers and committee members for next year’s expanded festival. Anyone interested in shaping this 11-year tradition can email [email protected]. Festival updates are available on their Facebook page.

About 175 teens hit the dance floor Friday night at the lively Teen Luau Dance, an event packed with energy and fun in Kewanee. Dianne Packee delighted the crowd, joining the party in a blow-up chicken suit, sparking laughter and excitement throughout the evening. Kewanee Police Officer Hansen also showed off impressive dance moves, quickly becoming a favorite among the kids. The event fostered a sense of community, giving local youth a chance to relax and connect. Organizers hailed the night as a huge success, with everyone heading home with big smiles and lasting memories.

Bird’s Eye View Aerial Service provided some views of the chalk art from above.

Award Winners in Chalk Art:

Autumn Zaehringer
1st Place Professional in Chalk Art
People’s Choice Professional

Emma Larson
2nd Place Professional in Chalk Art

Tim Bryner
3rd Place Professional in Chalk Art

Liyah York
1st Place Amateur in Chalk Art

Diana Rawlings
Amateur 2nd Place
Amateur People’s Choice Award winner

Kaylee Grundling
3rd Place Amateur

Nora Yaklich and Scarlett Morey teamed up this year.
Youth 11-13 1st Place in Chalk Art
Youth People’s Choice

Savannah Shaw
2nd Place Youth 11-13

Evan Larson
Youth 14-17 1st Place in Chalk Art

Katelyn DeSmit
2nd Place Youth 14-17

Hayden Salisbury
1st Place Youth 5-7

Owen McNamee – “Lava Lamp”
2nd Place Youth 5-7

Oliver Stabler
1st Place Youth 8-10

Harper Salisbury
2nd Place Youth 8-10

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