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The Wild West Festival committee is proud to announce the successful conclusion of the 2024 festival, a year that proved both challenging and rewarding.
Despite the unique hurdles faced in organizing this year’s event, the community rallied together to ensure the festival was a memorable one.
The committee extends its sincere gratitude to the sponsors and volunteers who were instrumental in making the festival a triumph.
Their contributions ensured that the event not only entertained thousands but also remained profitable.
The funds generated will continue to support future festivals.
"This year brought its share of difficulties, from logistics to weather concerns, but the way our community stepped up was remarkable," said Jeff Ridgway, president of the Wild West Festival committee. "We faced some unexpected challenges, but thanks to the incredible efforts of our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees, we were able to overcome them and host a fantastic event. It’s a testament to the power of community collaboration."
The 2024 Wild West Festival featured the traditional array of activities that have made it a hallmark of summer in Hays.
From its signature concerts to family-friendly activities and the always-popular fireworks display, the festival drew crowds from across the region.
This year’s concert lineup included both local talent and nationally recognized performers, keeping the crowds engaged and energized throughout the event.
"Our concert series was a big hit this year, with diverse acts that appealed to all ages," Ridgway said. "It’s always a pleasure to see our community enjoying great music together. This year’s lineup really delivered, and we’re already brainstorming for next year’s festival."
In addition to the concerts, the festival offered a range of activities aimed at all ages.
Families enjoyed everything from a cornhole tournament to food trucks and photo booths. The Nex-Tech Wireless photo booth, Nex-Tech Cash Catch, and the nightly guitar auction featuring autographed guitars from the headlining acts were just some of the exciting features that kept attendees engaged throughout the weekend.
"We strive to create an experience that is as inclusive and enjoyable as possible," Ridgway said. "It’s important to us that the Wild West Festival remains a family-friendly event that offers something for everyone. This year’s activities helped us achieve that goal, and we’re grateful to everyone who participated and helped bring it all together."
One of the festival’s most crucial components is its network of sponsors and volunteers.
The financial support provided by local businesses and organizations enables the Wild West Festival to keep ticket prices affordable, while the volunteers’ dedication ensures the event runs smoothly.
Together, they form the backbone of the festival’s continued success.
"We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, whose generosity allows us to keep this tradition alive year after year," Ridgway said. "Without their financial contributions and willingness to support community events, the Wild West Festival wouldn’t be possible. Equally important are our volunteers, who give their time and energy to ensure everything runs smoothly. From set-up to clean-up, they are the unsung heroes of the festival."
This year, the festival drew in thousands of attendees from both Hays and the surrounding region.
The positive feedback received from festival-goers highlights the impact of the event, not only as an entertainment option but also as a community-building experience.
The success of the festival reverberates throughout the year, benefiting local organizations that use festival equipment or participate in volunteering efforts.
"As a not-for-profit event, the Wild West Festival is proud to support many other local groups throughout the year," Ridgway said. "Organizations like Fort Hays State University football, the Hurricanes Swim Club, Boy Scout Troops 101 and 133, Oktoberfest, the Hays Striders, and the Veterans Program by the Hays Larks benefit from the funds and resources we’re able to provide thanks to the festival. It’s a full-circle effort that strengthens our entire community."
Looking ahead, the Wild West Festival committee is already planning for next year’s event.
While this year’s festival was a success, Ridgway and the team are committed to building on that momentum to ensure that 2025 is an even greater success.
"We are looking forward to seeing what 2025 will bring," Ridgway said. "We’ve already started planning, and we are confident that next year’s festival will be bigger and better than ever. With the continued support of our sponsors, volunteers, and the entire community, there’s no limit to what we can achieve."
For more information about the Wild West Festival, including how to get involved as a sponsor or volunteer for next year’s event, visit wildwestfestival.com or contact Jeff Ridgway at (785) 639-3365.