Walking around the carnival that sprouts up near Shawnee’s town hall every summer evokes a sense of how the small town of Shawnee used to be and how it evolved into the city we live in today. The festival will be held June 3-6 in Old Shawnee Town next to Blue Jacket Park. For Shawnee residents, this festival is the annual kick-off to summer and features carnival rides, treats, crafts and music.

“We are going to have great new things this year, like a cool dog show performed by Las Vegas trained animals, baking contests and farm animals,” Stacey Bienhoff, head of entertainment for Old Shawnee Days said.

Thursday will be all-you-can-ride wristband night. By purchasing the $20 wristband, admissions to ride all of the attractions are free, but these wristbands don’t include booth tolls. For children 6 and under the cost is only $10. Admission for concerts is free. There is no seating, so lawn chairs and blankets are recommended, but don’t bring your pets. Only guide dogs for the disabled are allowed on the premises.

“I’m mostly looking forward to the fried pickles. The onion blossoms are awesome,” junior Hailey Esch said, “I love to ride The Ring of Fire, and definitely the Ali Baba. It’s a classic.”

-Monica Castellon

Schedule

Thursday 6 p.m.-10p.m.
Old Shawnee Days Festival, Liverpool (Beatles coverband)
Friday 6 p.m.- 10 p.m.
Old Shawnee Days Festival, Hells Bells (a tribute to AC/DC)
Saturday 10 a.m.
Parade
11 a.m.- 10 p.m.
Old Shawnee Days Festival, Starship starring Mickey Thomas
Sunday 11:30-6 p.m.
Old Shawnee Days Festival