This year’s festival is just around the corner and we are celebrating earlier this year. The 8th annual Rarden Whitetail Deer Festival will be on September 11th, 12th, and 13th. 

There have been some changes, beginning with our new chairman Ronald Syroney.  The Rarden Festival Committee has again been planning all year to provide new and enjoyable events.  It is always amazing how fast the year rolls around.

Festival favorites will again include the 3-D Bow shoot, Trophy Buck Tent, the
5-K Deer Run, 3 on 3 Basketball tournament, Shotgun and Muzzleloader shoot, just to name a few. Breakfast will again be available at the firehouse Saturday and Sunday morning from 6-11am. Price is only $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. Cub Scout Pack #44 will again open the festival with the raising of the flags. Check out our schedule to see when your favorite event is happening.

New to Friday is the Cornhole Tournament and organized this year by Jared Syroney. The Baby Contest is now being organized by Holly Johnson. We hope you will help them make their events a success!

 We are welcoming back Raptors Inc., as well as introducing you to the magical world of “Fly Fishing” with a demonstration by author Tom Cross. This will happen in the South Park on Saturday. A reminder to everyone to wander through the exhibitor’s tent and check out all the programs detailed there.

One of our newest events is returning this year: the Greased Pig contest. We have a new spin on it. In addition to the child’s divisions, we have expanded to adults and have added a Fire Department Challenge. Teams of three, in full turn-out gear will go after an adult pig for a timed competition. Be sure and get in on the fun on Saturday.

Saturday at 4:30 in front of the stage is the setting for our annual auction. We hope you come and bid on some fine items, many of which are donated by our generous vendors.  Sunday will again showcase our baked goods auction and donations are accepted at the festival tent.

There is no shortage of great entertainment all weekend. Our Karaoke contest Friday evening always brings out some really good local talent.

The festival winds down on Sunday with our grand parade, arriving down Main Street beginning at 3:00.

Come and enjoy some good clean fun-filled days in Rarden Ohio. There will be great food, various vendors, and inflatables for the kids to enjoy. We look forward to seeing everyone at the 8th Annual Whitetail Deer Festival.