Another successful Palmer Day is in the books! 

Sat., Sept. 6, throngs of people gathered in Palmer for the annual parade and festivities. The day started with a 9 a.m. 5K walk/run. The 5K event at Palmer Day was started back in 2007 by Jean Wipper and Mary Jo Hoefer. The 5K has continued to gain popularity each year; with a record breaking 154 runners participating in the 5K this year. 

Despite a few rain showers during the parade and again later at Palmer Park, peoples spirits weren’t dampened. The event featured a car show (coordinated by Pat and Jeff Arnold) The car show also broke a record with 162 entries (vs 152 entries last year).

The parade featured 67 entries, with float winners being Briggs Lake General Store in first place and B & J Evergreen Tree Farm taking second place. After the parade, people enjoyed a plethora of events happening at Palmer Park. There was a horseshoe tournament, live music, a bouncy house for the kids and many other events. 

There were many scrumptious food booths offering pork chops, philly sandwiches, burgers, mini donuts, fresh popcorn, cotton candy and much more. Many of the food booths were hosted by local civic groups. The beer garden was staffed by Clear Lake Lions members. 

Joan and Harry Ernzer were the honorary Grand Marshals for this year’s event. Joan and Harry have been married 31 years and have been instrumental behind the scenes as volunteers for Palmer Day for over 25 years. Joan has served as co-chair for the event for 20 years. Harry emceed the Palmer Day parade for several years.