The Wise County Old Settlers Reunion is July 22-27. Here’s a preview of the oldest and best tradition in the county. ARCHIVES
Wise County’s oldest tradition and best kept secret is finally here.
That’s right. The 143rd Wise County Old Settlers Reunion is making its anticipated return to Joe Wheeler Park, where thousands from home and abroad will gather from July 22 to July 27.
As always, the attractions for visitors young and old will be plentiful. Carnival rides, live music and a smorgasbord of fair foods are just a few things that make the multi-generational affair a sight to behold.
Here’s the rundown of Reunion events to keep you in the know for this week’s festivities.
Digital Messenger coverage of Reunion is brought to you by Tom’s Pool Service and Taylor Septic and Dozer Service.
Monday, July 22
The Reunion committee kicks off the week of fun with the most inclusive, and most responsible form of gambling, bingo. The callers will be stationed under the pavilion at 7 p.m. as you enter Joe Wheeler Park with cards for sale at $10 each or four for $30.
There’s going to be some serious prizes to contend for this year, so bring your cash or have Venmo ready to buy a stack of winning cards.
Tuesday, July 23
Tuesday at Reunion truly separates the elite athletes from the average Joes with the 15th annual Put Yo’ Money Where Your Mouth is Washer Tournament. Event registration starts at 6 p.m. and washers start getting tossed at 7 p.m.
The sport isn’t for the faint of heart.
The once world record holder has produced top-notch competitors that know how to combine precision, endurance and smack talk for hours on end. Just look at MLB all-star pitcher and former Decatur ace Bryce Elder, who was crowned champion alongside Cade Lamirand in 2018.
Last year, Dylan Nation and Thaine Laaser claimed the prestigious washer medals for the second time in three years.
Wednesday, July 24
Would you rather see a kill go screaming into the ground than a metal disc land in a hole? Then look to the 3rd annual Lady Eagle Volleyball Booster Club Grass Bash on Wednesday.
Registration is full, but you don’t want to miss out on the action. Team “Can You Dig It?” took home the trophy and bragging rights last summer, outlasting some formidable opponents late into the night. The LEVB Booster Club will also raffle off some great items this year, with proceeds going directly to the volleyball program.
Thursday, July 25
The free concert series begins Thursday at 9 p.m., with Dallas-based Vencedores Del Bravo taking the stage first.
They’ve already proven to be a smash hit in Wise County, as the band took to the stage as Baile De Bridgeport’s headliner this spring.
Friday, July 26
Shine your boots and starch those jeans for Friday’s musical offering, as Race Ricketts and Slade Coulter deliver original Texas tunes starting at 9 p.m. Hailing from nearby Olney, Ricketts’ 2024 project “940” will surely resonate with Reunion-goers if they give it a listen.
Coulter cut his teeth in one of the state’s most storied music scenes, Lubbock, and is bound to make Friday’s concert a classic.
Saturday, July 27
It’s the moment we all simultaneously wait for and hope doesn’t come: The grand finale.
Saturday’s show wraps up the week with the aptly named Turnpike Troubadours cover band, Turnpike Tributedours, and do-it-all group Texas Red Dirt Experience. Both artists have been staples in the tribute band sphere, with countless appearances across other festivals and city events, and look to make a mark on this year’s Reunion.
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