Schedule of Events

Events may change; please watch Marshall Radio stations and

Throughout the Festival

• The Robert Schwan "Focus On the Sounds of Summer"  Photography Competition & Exhibit - Marshall Area Fine Arts Council is proud to host the sixth Robert Schwan Focus on the Sounds of Summer Competition and Exhibit with The Schwan Food Company at the MAFAC Arts Center, at their Third Street location. Exhibit dates are August 7 though September 8, and the pre-registration deadline is June 29.  2007 themes are "A Smile is Worth a Thousand Words" and "Living in Prairie Land".  Call 532-5463 for more information. Free event.
   
• Kid's Coloring Contest - Sponsored by Marshall Bowl.  Pick up your coloring sheets NOW at Marshall Bowl, the YMCA, the Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce office, and other Marshall locations.  Return completed entries to Marshall Bowl by Monday, August 27.
   
• Lyon County Historical Society Ice Cream Counter - Join the Lyon County for some cold treats at their Schwan's Dairy Lunch Counter, a real 1950s ice cream and soda fountain counter.  They will be serving ice cream cones, soda, root beer floats, sundaes, malts, banana splits and the famous Schwan's Pig Dinner (a Paul Schwan original:  containing bananas, 3 kinds of ice cream, assorted toppings, nuts, whipped cream and topped with candy corn!)
   

Thursday, August 23

• Kiddie Parade - Sponsored by Community Services.  Our annual Kiddie Parade (normally held during Crazy Days) has been added to our SOS activities, due to the downtown street construction project.  10:30 AM, Marvin Schwan Boulevard.  MOVED TO FRIDAY, AUGUST 24 DUE TO RAIN!
   
• Penny Carnival - Sponsored by Community Services.  11 AM to 1 PM, Downtown Park.  SORRY! CANCELLED DUE TO RAIN!  THIS EVENT WILL NOT BE RESCHEDULED.
   
• Boards and Blades Skateboard Event -  If you haven't seen one of Marshall's most unique athletic venues, it's time to visit the new Boards and Blades Skate Park.  Legion Field Drive, next to the Aquatic Center.  Free Admission and pads from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.  
   
• Teen Central -  FREE Games and fun activities for Teens, YMCA Multipurpose Room, 3 - 6 PM.
   
• Bluegrass at Liberty Park  -  The Becky Schlegel Band.  Join us for this free event sponsored by the Marshall Area Fine Arts Council Performance Series. This professional entertainer from the Twin Cities has been called "the angel-voided up and comer!" by Garrison Keillor.  "A voice pretty enough to make grown men cry," says Chir Reimsenschnieder of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.  Bring your lawn chairs, spread your blanket on the grass and enjoy the entertainment!  Liberty Park Band shell. The evening will kick off with the Marshall Fiddle Band at 6 PM, followed by another musical group (TBA).  The Becky Schlegel Band will play starting at 7:30 PM.  Free event.
   
• Jazzed Up Rib Fest -  During Bluegrass at Liberty Park, tantalize your taste buds with a serving of ribs and delectable sides.  A limited amount of tickets are available at the Chamber office office or by reservation at 507-532-4484.  Serving at 5:30 p.m.,  then stay around for the free concerts. 
   
• Great American Hot Dog Feed - During our Liberty Park event, join the Marshall Area Fine Arts Council for gourmet hot dogs will all the fixings, with proceeds to MAFAC.  All-American Dog, Cubs Park Chicago Dog, Cupid's Famous Hot Dog, New York Style Dog, and the Taco Dog!  Serving begins at 4:30 PM.
   
• Sidewalk Chalk Walk - Decorate the sidewalks at Liberty Park with your own artwork!  Whether kid or adult, express yourself during the Marshall Sounds of Summer. Create your own artistic statement.  Pick up a bucket of chalk, or bring your own!
   
• Thursdays on Third - If you have missed our weekly Thursdays on Third events, get acquainted as this event relocates to Liberty Park to join in our festivities.  Flea market items, farmer's market fare and lots more!
   
• Art Amble - Visit Liberty Park to view the works of many Marshall artists, displayed for viewing.  Demonstrations, too.  Noon to Dusk.
  
      Artists include:   
      Pat Lucas, Karen VanderWal, Victoria Hannah, Cat Abbott, Kim            
      Henspeter, Don Breyfogle, Jose Lamas, Pete and Rachael Landherr,
      Katia Andreeva, Lora Lee Miller and Iron Pour mold making!
   
• Teen Dance - 8-10 PM at the Marshall Area YMCA, Multipurpose Room.  This event is aimed at 11 - 15 year olds.  Admission charge.  Concessions & goodies will be sold.
   
• Iron Pour - Corner of Main and College Drive, 7 PM to midnight. 
   
• Girls Night Out - Landmark Bistro, 5 to 8 PM
   
• Wooden Nickel Patio Party - 9 PM, featuring Happy Feet.
  
  

Friday, August 24  "Family Friendly Friday!"

• Morning Yoga - Start your day off right with certified instructors from the Avera Marshall Wellness Center.  Gather at the Wellness Center at 7 AM for an hour of relaxation and stretching to start your day.  No charge to attend, no registration necessary. Free event.
   
• Kiddie Parade - Sponsored by Community Services.  Our annual Kiddie Parade (normally held during Crazy Days) has been added to our SOS activities, due to the downtown street construction project.  Line up at 11:30 AM at the Downtown Park, parade starts at 11:45 AM and will proceed along Marvin Schwan Boulevard.  RESCHEDULED TO FRIDAY, AUGUST 24 DUE TO RAIN!
  
• Sidewalk Chalk Walk - Decorate the sidewalks of downtown Marshall with your own artwork!  Whether kid or adult, express yourself during the Marshall Sounds of Summer. Create your own artistic statement adjacent to the YMCA.  Pick up a bucket of chalk, or bring your own! Free event.
    
  
• Kid's Central - Kids 3 - 10 are invited to join the YMCA from 11 AM to 1 PM for a creative day, tie-dying a special Sounds of Summer t-shirt.  No registration is required, but there is a fee to participate.  (Children under the age of 9 years of age will need to be supervised by a parent / guardian.  Parents supervising their children will not be required to pay, unless they wish to tie-dye a shirt for themselves.)
  
  
• Robert Schwan Photo Exhibit - MAFAC, 11 AM to 4:30 PM.   Free event.
   
• Kids' Vehicle Fair - If your kids love trains, planes and automobiles, this event is for you!  View a helicopter, mail truck, fire truck, police car, bus, ambulance and much, much more!  12 Noon to 3 PM, between the YMCA and Marshall Fire Department.  Enjoy the bells and whistles, and receive a cool Schwans Ice Cream Treat!
   
• Teen Central -  FREE Games and fun activities for Teens, YMCA Multipurpose Room, 3 - 8 PM.
   
• Children's Theater  -  "Campfire Tales".  Scores of local children team up with professional actors to create poster, sets, costumes and learn about drama, dance, music and behind-the-scenes theater. Performance at the Marshal Middle School Theater, 7 PM.
   
• ECFE Jungle Sam and the Safari Band - Liberty Park (rain location, High School Gym North) 5:30 PM.  Free Event.
   
• Big Buddies 16th Anniversary Celebration -  5:30 PM, Liberty Park.  Enjoy FREE root beer and orange floats to celebrate the organizations anniversary.
  
  
• Skateboard Event -  If you haven't seen one of Marshall's most unique athletic venues, it's time to visit the new Boards and Blades Skate Park.  Legion Field Drive, next to the Aquatic Center.  Free admission and pads from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
   
• Deuces Wild Dueling Pianos -  7:30 PM, tickets on sale NOW at the Marshall Area Chamber office or phone (507) 532-4484 for more information.  Only 350 tickets available.  Schwan Ice Arena.  Doors will open at 6:30 PM. Cocktails and concessions on site.

Saturday, August 25

• Farmer's Market - Enjoy nature's bounty at our weekly Farmer's Market, from 7 AM until approximately noon in The Schwan Food Company parking lot on West College Drive.  Watch for Farmer's Market signage.
   
• Morning Yoga - Start your day off right with certified instructors from the Avera Marshall Wellness Center.  Gather at the Wellness Center at 8 AM for an hour of relaxation and stretching to start your day.  No charge to attend, no registration necessary.  Free event.
  
  
• Fly-In Pancake Breakfast - Annual Sunrise Rotary Fly-in Pancake Breakfast from 8:30am to 12:30pm at the award winning Southwest Minnesota Regional Airport-Marshall/Ryan Field.   Adults $6.00, children $4.00, and kids under 5 eat free!  Pancakes, sausage, juice and coffee.  While at the breakfast, visit the Red Baron Museum , and see a Red Baron Stearman on display!  Come enjoy the food and stay for the fun!
  
  
• Camden Classic Mountain Bike Event - The Camden Classic Mountain Bike Event will feature several road rides of varying distances, a Mountain Sport Bike Ride and a competitive mountain bike race at Camden State Park. FREE Rich Wieber's Bicycle Stunt shows throughout the day.  Visit www.camdenclassic.net for complete details.
  
   
• YMCA 3 vs. 3 Youth Basketball - Teams can be co-ed.  There will be four divisions based on upcoming grade in school:  3rd & 4TH, 5TH & 6TH, 7TH & 8TH, 9TH & 10TH, AND 11TH & 12TH.  This is a double elimination tournament.  T-shirts will be handed out to all participants and medals will be awarded to 1st place in each division. 
   
• 3-Point Shoot Out - 12 Noon, YMCA
   
• Slam Dunk Contest - 12:30 PM, YMCA
   
• Sounds of East Africa - BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!!!! Sounds of East Africa. Join us at Justice Park from 1-4:30 pm to taste African foods, listen to African music, and enjoy a day in the park with your family and neighbors. Activities for kids and henna designing will be available. The event is free, but donations are welcome. The event is sponsored by Iftiin, Inc. 929-1030.
   
• Skateboard Event -  If you haven't seen one of Marshall's most unique athletic venues, it's time to visit the new Boards and Blades Skate Park.  Legion Field Drive, next to the Aquatic Center.  Free admission and pads from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
   
• Robert Schwan Photo Exhibit - MAFAC.  Special Art Center hours Saturday from 11 AM to 2 PM.  Free event.
   
• Children's Theater  -  "Campfire Tales".  Scores of local children team up with professional actors to create poster, sets, costumes and learn about drama, dance, music and behind-the-scenes theater. Performance at the Marshal Middle School Theater, 2 PM.
  
   
• Teen Central -  FREE Games and fun activities for Teens, YMCA Multipurpose Room, 10 AM  - 8 PM.
  
  
• Open Air Concert -  Lyon County Fairground.  Featuring Juventud Musical, C. A. R. Worship, Roxbury with special guest Trina Thomas, West of Nowhere, and Westside Band.  Gates will open at 1:30 PM.  Admission to our open air concerts is just $5, kids under 12 are FREE.  Gate admission prior to 4 PM is just HALF-PRICE.  Concessions and cocktails on-site throughout the day.  Bring your ID, sorry, no coolers allowed.
   
• Family Grill and Chill - FREE hotdogs and chips from 4:30 to 6 PM, or while supplies last. Lyon County Fairgrounds, gate admissions apply.
   

Sunday, August 26

• Robert Schwan Photo Exhibit Awards - MAFAC, 313 West Main Street. 2:30 PM, following the festival parade.  Meet exhibit artists, award presentation.   Free event.
   
• Community Praise Service - 10 AM.  Join members of our Marshall community in a non-denominational outdoor worship service in beautiful Liberty Park, featuring a variety of music.   Everyone is invited to attend, regardless of church affiliation.  Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a community wide praise service!
   
• Sounds of Summer 3-Man Scramble Golf Tournament - Enjoy a round of golf at beautiful Savannah Oaks Golf Course, with registration from 10 AM to 10:45 AM, followed by a shot-gun start at 11 AM.  Click here for entry information.
   
• Splash Dance - Kids can enjoy being hosed down by the Marshall Fire Department at our fun splash dance.   This event is free and there are prizes for the kids.  Marshall Aquatic Center.  Free event.

• Festival Parade - 1 PM.  Lineup at the Marshall Middle School.  Parade will proceed down Lyon Street past Independence Park, and turn on Jewett to end at the Market Street Mall parking lot.  Everybody loves a parade!  Bring your lawn chair and sunglasses and find a spot to cheer on your favorites as the parade passes by!   Parade-goers will enjoy entries from Marshall area clubs, organizations, businesses, and churches.  In addition to our own Marshall High School Tiger Marching Band, and Southwest Minnesota State University Star of Minnesota Marching Band, the SOS Parade will also feature such professional acts as Kracker Jacks and Bleep.  Free event.
   
• Picnic at the Park -  Enjoy several activities planned for Independence Park before, during and after our festival parade.  Battle of the Band winners will perform.  Due to downtown street construction, our traditional parade route will be rerouted past Independence Park.  Free event.
   
• Band Exhibition - Immediately following the Festival Parade, stay downtown and watch the Band/Drumline Exhibition at Independence Park.  Free event.
   
• Battle of the Bands - Nine regional bands battled it out at the Lyon County Fair, and we have the best performing at Independence Park following the band exhibition, 3 - 6 PM.  Performing bands include Welcome to the Cinema from Sioux Falls, SD; Octane Alley from Russell, MN; and Shadow Puppet from Cottonwood, MN.   Free event.
  
  
• Afternoon Yoga -  Whew!!! The festival is almost over.  Relax.  Kick back with an hour of yoga, guaranteed to relax you after a hectic weekend of fun!  Avera Marshall Wellness Center, 4 PM.  Free event.
  
  
• Sunday Sounds - Spend Sunday with your family and friends as you enjoy an outdoor concert featuring Christian music for the whole family to enjoy.  Phil Wickham will perform beginning at approximately 6 PM.  The Whopper Wagon will be on site as a benefit for the Jill Driessen-Houseman Family.   Liberty Park.  Free event.
  

For additional information about any of these Sounds of Summer events, please call the Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce at 532-4484 or email us at chamber@starpoint.net.

Groups or organizations interested in adding events to our event calendar for 2008 can also contact us with your ideas and suggestions.