Parades, rodeo, carnival midway, live music and so much more. For 117 years Wagner, South Dakota has celebrated Labor Day with a big celebration. The event this year is four big days, Friday through Monday, September 1-4, 2017.

Since I was born and raised in Wagner, I rarely miss a Labor Day celebration. It's one of the biggest and best city celebrations in the state.

The weekend starts with Beer Olympics at 8:00 PM Friday. Saturday morning, get up bright and early for the annual Road Race. The Kiddie Parade starts at 10:00 AM followed by the 19th annual Poker Run. The kids will have fun at the Kids Pedal Tractor Pull at Noon in front of Dakota Bowl. The Queen Contest will be held at the Wagner Community School Theater with 9 contestants competing. The rodeo starts at 7:00 PM. Wrap up Saturday with illusionist Reza at the Wagner Armory.

Festival in the Park opens at 10:00 AM on Sunday with a variety of merchandise vendors, food vendors and entertainment. The Figure 8 races start at 12:00 PM at Wagner Speedway. The Veteran's Labor Day Ride starts at 12:00 PM. Bring your appetite for Ribs at McCormick Field starting at 4:00 PM. There will be a bean bag tournament and a show and shine display. The rodeo featuring nine major events starts at 7:00 PM. Wrap up Sunday night by dancing to live music from Dustin Evans & the Good Times Band from 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM at the Wagner Armory.

Monday morning it's the 117th Labor Day Parade starting at 10:00 AM. Bring your bags and buckets because there's a lot of candy to be had. Festival in the Park will be open from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Check out the Strongman Competition at Dogger's Dive starting at 12:00 PM. Make sure the kids pack their poles. The Kids' Fishing Tournament starts at 1:30 PM at Wagner Lake.  Make your way to Wagner Speedway on Monday night for the season championship races starting at 7:00 PM.

Main street will be full of rides for young and old provided by DC Lynch Carnival. Play some games, win some prizes, enjoy some mini donuts and cotton candy and don't forget to stop at the American Legion stand for a homemade tavern sandwich.

For a list of events and more info, click here.


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