While the high school kids are at prom, everyone else can play.
Squarefest is a first-time music and food event on the square this Saturday, offered to all ages during the Iola High School prom.
Organizers envisioned a “pop-up prom,” a springtime social event that would bring the community together. Jonathon Goering, who works in economic development, saw how other communi
across the state had brought similar events to their squares and downtowns, and wanted to do the same in Iola.
The event will offer music, food and a beer garden on the north side of the square between Washington and North Street.
Business owner Hayley Derryberry said having the event coincide with prom is ideal, as family members from out of town are likely to come to the Grand March at Iola High School to see their loved ones all dressed up for prom.
“People will already be out and close to downtown, so we’ll pull them over and give them something to do while the kids are having fun,” Derryberry said.
Her husband, Paul Porter, said the event is the sort of thing he and Hayley envisioned when they moved to Iola and established a business on the square. The Iola square has much to offer, he said.
“Our focus is the square,” he said. “We want to see people on the square, flooding into the businesses, walking around and enjoying what’s there.”
SQUAREFEST kicks off at 5 p.m. and runs until 10.
There is no charge to attend.
A stage will be set up for a street dance, offering music by the Mildred Store Musicians and opening act The Trail.
Food will be provided by Rookies Sports Bar and Grill, and Rico’s Food Truck.
A beer garden is available, hosted by Big Square Media and Derryberry Breadery at 20 W. Jackson St.
The event is sponsored by area businesses.
An after-party is planned at Time Out Tavern.
