Ellinwood held its 49th annual After Harvest Festival this weekend with a celebration of “Hometown Roots.” Community members who live along the parade route watched from front porches, while others brought chairs downtown for the Saturday morning parade.

The Ellinwood Rotary Club has been coordinating the AHF Parade since 1991. Judges for the parade entries were Lori Steffan, Jennifer Klepper and Gaila Demel.

Along with first responders and politicians, the parade featured Ellinwood High School cheerleaders and football players, the Ellinwood Eagle Backerz and class reunion floats – starting with the Class of 1962, celebrating its 60th reunion, and ending with the Class of 2022.

The Grand Marshal, Ellinwood Recreation Director Stephen Richter, rode in a classic Corvette. Rosie Joiner from the Ellinwood Rotary Club Organizing Committee explained how the grand marshal is chosen. “We’re always looking for someone who gives exemplary service and dedication to our community. We look for someone that exemplifies the spirit of Ellinwood and is very involved. Stephen is that.” 

Another parade entry posthumously honored Distinguished Citizen Kelly Miller, who died on May 16. He was born and raised in Ellinwood and enjoyed farming, small-town living and raising his family where he was raised.

The parade was one of many AHF events. The festival started last Wednesday with special displays at the Ellinwood School/Community Library and the Museum of Ellinwood, along with a Brick Street Stroll and cruise night on Main Street.

On Thursday there was a community barbecue and homemade ice cream and pie social, and on Friday there was a community breakfast. Throughout the week, there were kids games and activities for all ages. 

The festival wrapped up Saturday night with a dance featuring Cody Canada and the Departed at the City Park.