Holton’s Glory Days packs fun into one day

Kick off Memorial Day weekend with Holton’s Glory Days, a family-friendly festival on the square from morning to early afternoon.

Start date

23 May, 2026

End date

23 May, 2026 2:00 PM

Event details

Glory Days in Holton turns the historic Town Square into a high-energy community hub on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. You come for the homecoming spirit of high school alumni and stay for the shine of classic chrome, with antique and hot rod cars drawing enthusiasts from across Kansas. Spend your morning looping the square to browse 40 plus artisan and craft vendors, then shift gears to the car show for close-up looks and conversations with owners.

Your day starts at 8:00 AM with a traditional flag-raising ceremony, followed by a steady build toward the 11:00 AM high school alumni parade. You will watch decorated class floats roll along New York Avenue as participants rack up points in weekend challenges, and you will find plenty of food and drink options around the square. If you want a calmer interlude, Banner Creek Lake is minutes away for a quiet waterfront reset before you return downtown.

Plan to arrive by 8:00 AM to see car show entrants roll in and to claim curbside parade viewing, especially if you want a seat. Square activities are free, though car show registration runs 15 dollars and alumni banquet tickets typically range from 30 to 35 dollars, with a local veterans luncheon also on offer. Bring a folding chair and high-SPF sun protection since shade can be limited at midday, and if the square hits peak crowding during the parade, head to Banner Creek Lake for a picnic and come back for the 1:30 PM car show awards.

For logistics, street parking is available in the blocks around the square, but after 10:00 AM you should expect a short walk. Most programming continues rain or shine, with the parade and car show adjusting only for severe weather. If you are traveling with a pet, remember that dense crowds and loud engines can be stressful. For overnight plans, choose a local inn or bed-and-breakfast near downtown, or go outdoors with campsites and cabin rentals at Banner Creek Lake, and if you plan to exhibit as a vendor or car show participant, check the Chamber of Commerce site early since registration often closes several days ahead.