Epworth, Iowa, recently celebrated its cherished annual “Town and Country Days,” a vibrant community festival that consistently draws attendees back year after year, embodying the spirit of local tradition and communal gathering.

For Janet and Mitch Gericke, residents of rural Buchanan County, this quarter-century tradition began purely by chance. An accidental discovery of the parade during a visit transformed into an unwavering annual pilgrimage, as they now drive an hour each August to reclaim their favored spot along the parade route.

Inaugurated in 1999, the festival’s distinctive name, “Town and Country Days,” perfectly encapsulates its dual focus, celebrating both Epworth’s close-knit urban community and the surrounding agricultural landscapes. A notable tradition sees two pairs of marshals, one representing the town and another from the countryside, leading the festivities.

The parade itself serves as a lively centerpiece, featuring iconic elements such as vintage fire trucks adorned with town marshals, enthusiastic participants tossing candy to eager children like two-year-old Tori Herman and seven-year-old Cora Gotto, and the dignified march of the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Department alongside young scouts proudly carrying the American flag.

Beyond the celebratory atmosphere, the event also champions crucial causes. This year, the local women veterans’ group organized a 5K walk/run, directing all proceeds to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Dubuque affiliate, highlighting a commitment to community well-being.

NAMI Dubuque has expanded its vital “brain health” services into Epworth’s rural areas over the past year, facilitated by a significant grant from the Epworth Town & Country Betterment Committee. This initiative addresses the critical need for accessible mental health support in underserved rural communities, as emphasized by Elizabeth Marner, NAMI Dubuque’s Epworth program coordinator.

The festival’s comprehensive schedule offered diverse attractions, including a robust truck and tractor show and a dynamic live auction on Saturday. Friday’s agenda set a festive tone with an ice cream social and live musical performances, culminating Saturday night with an energetic street dance and more live entertainment.

The enduring appeal of Town and Country Days is further underscored by its role as a multi-generational family tradition. Linda Mozena, an Asbury resident who grew up in Epworth, has cherished the event with her grandchildren for years, with one grandchild even celebrating a 12th birthday amidst the festival’s joyous celebration.