Annual Scandinavia Corn Roast returns

SCANDINAVIA – The 58th annual Scandinavia Corn Roast is set to return from July 31 through Aug. 2, bringing a weekend of live music, carnival rides and community traditions.
The event at 110 Industrial Park is hosted by the Scandinavia Booster Club, which has organized the event for over 50 years. This year’s festival will celebrate America’s semiquincentennial with the theme “U.S.A. 250 Years.”
The weekend kicks off on Friday, with gates opening at 5 p.m. The evening events include the Scandinavia Volunteer Fire Department Fireman’s Dance, with live music from the band Grand Union from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The dance serves as a fundraiser for the local fire department.
The Saturday events begin with the family-friendly Cob Run 5K in downtown Scandinavia. Race registration opens at 7:30 a.m., with runners taking off at 8:30 a.m. The annual Corn Roast Parade follows at 10 a.m., leading into a craft fair that runs from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Saturday events include truck pulls starting at noon, immediately followed by the modified tractor pulls. Saturday’s live entertainment includes Punch & Pie from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and ‘80s rock band Rising Phoenix taking the stage at 8 p.m.

The final day of the festival on Sunday includes the famous free corn, alongside a 10:30 a.m. pie social and the continuation of the craft fair. Live music includes an Elvis tribute by Dakota Pongratz from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and the Blues Brothers Imposters from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The antique tractor pulls will also take place on Sunday, starting at 11 a.m.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can enjoy daily attractions including wood carving demonstrations, mechanical bulls, the Scandinavia Vikings Baseball Tournament and a carnival provided by Earls Rides. Unlimited ride wristbands will be available for $25 during designated hours each day.
Proceeds from the Scandinavia Corn Roast directly support the Scandinavia Booster Club’s community initiatives.