Cowley College Visits the Kansas Wheat Festival

 The 124th Wheat Festival, held from July 9-13, was a grand celebration for Wellington and all of Sumner County. This annual event, steeped in tradition and community spirit, brought together residents and visitors alike to revel in a week of festivities.

Cowley College was a proud sponsor of four exciting events that captivated attendees of all ages. Among these was the "Perplexing Puzzle," a thrilling race where participants scrambled to complete a 1000-piece puzzle against the clock, testing their patience, teamwork, and eyesight under pressure.

For the tech-savvy youngsters, there was the "Mindstorm Mashup," a robotic challenge that invited kids to program robots to move and shoot a ball. This event not only entertained but also fostered interest in science and engineering among the youth in the community.

Another highlight was the "Kiddie Tractor Pull," a beloved tradition where children aged 4-12 showcased their strength and determination by maneuvering pedal tractors with weighted trailers over a 30-foot course. The top three winners earned coveted spots at the state fair, adding even more excitement and competition to the festival.

Amidst these activities, festival-goers enjoyed leisurely rides on a miniature train that chugged through the festival grounds, offering a scenic tour and a moment of relaxation amidst the sweltering temperatures.

The culmination of the festival was marked by a vibrant parade featuring a procession of vehicles ranging from Cowley College's CTE truck to Cowley's Criminal Justice patrol vehicles. The parade, a testament to community pride and unity, drew record crowds, prompting one City Council member to declare that to his memory this was the largest parade attendance in the festival's history. "The Wheat Festival is a time for the community to come together and make memories. We as a college appreciate the opportunity to help make some of the events happen and to be involved in the celebration and traditions that come with the Wheat Festival”, said Cowley College Sumner Campus Director Zach Cooper.

As the sun set on the final day of the Wheat Festival, the town of Wellington glowed with the warmth of shared memories, new friendships, and the timeless spirit of celebration that defined this cherished annual tradition. 

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu