LARNED — As far as summer fundraisers go, this Friday’s “Moonlight Madness” in downtown Larned promises to be a captivating event.

Decades ago, the Larned Chamber of Commerce promoted the end-of-summer retail event as a way for citizens to “beat the heat” with some lighthearted evening fun downtown. 

In times past, business owners were encouraged to join the frivolity by dressing in costume or offering games and activities to customers, as well as wild summertime sales.

In 2021, Larned Chamber Executive Director Alex Filbert brought back the occasion after a 15-year hiatus. Last year’s Moonlight Madness began with a hamburger feed, followed by an ATV parade, games and music.

This year’s fare — other than the shopping — features a corn hole tournament, train rides, a bouncy house and games. A street dance is scheduled for 8 p.m. at Fifth and Broadway as well as a night swim at the Larned City Pool. 

The evening ends with an outdoor showing of “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” on the lawn of the Pawnee County Courthouse at 9:15 p.m.

‘Kangaroo court’

New this year is the “Kangaroo Court” during business hours, as a Chamber fundraiser. A list of “criminals” have been fingered on a mock “wanted list” by family, friends and co-workers. They will be “arrested” on a silly charge that can be paid off in the form of a $40 bail amount. Or, they have the option to remain “in jail” for a short time, with a goofy task to perform by “the Honorable Judge” Derek Slack if bail is not arranged. Filbert notes that in this case, “Phone a Friend” can be invoked to help get out of jail.

“We’re hoping that everyone will play along,” Filbert noted.

In the meantime, downtown sidewalk sales will be ongoing until 8 p.m.