By Kris Leonhardt

MARSHFIELD – For multiple decades, Spencerama Days gathered families and old friends in an early summer setting; however, as the 1990s came to a close, attendance at the event trickled off. While community leaders tried to revive it for a few years, the final event was held in 2001.

In 2017, organizers set out to revive the long-time summer event and it did so well that they are bringing it back, but this time, they are working toward bigger and better.

“We had a wonderful crowd last year,” said Deb Schafer. “For a first year return, we were very pleased.  We are looking forward to those that couldn’t make it last year adding this event on their calendar and hoping those that checked it out last year return to find even more offered.

“We listened to the comments we had about last year’s event and worked to make changes and adjustments. One comment was that there wasn’t enough for kids to do, so we concentrated on adding events so this could truly be a weekend of family fun. We also work on events that are reasonably priced or at no cost so that everyone can enjoy the weekend without paying the price.”

“I personally am excited for the new events – the Petting Zoo, Human Foosball, Chalkfest, Rib/Pulled Pork Cook off, mini tractor and pedal pulls, Spencer Cars in the Park – not new but changes have been made, additional music, food including pie, games and activities for kids, face painting, and the parade.

“I guess I am excited for the entire weekend – a chance to see people I haven’t seen in a while, watching people have fun, and smelling those ribs smoking!”

Schafer says that that Spencerama is collaboration among multiple organizations, businesses, and churches that host events, booths, and activities.

She adds that the event is important to the village as it builds a sense of community and provides for it as well.

“The Village operates the beer tent and the sales it generates goes into the Spencerama fund for the next year’s advertising, tents, lighting, and essentials that makes the event happen,” Schafer added.

“Spencerama helps boost a spirit of community. It is an event where neighbors can gather and those that haven’t been ‘home’ lately come and enjoy getting together. Many of the events are being run by non-profit community groups and the profits they earn are kept by their organization which benefits the community also.”

Many of the activities are held in and around the Spencer Village Park. For more information, visit http://spencerwi.org/spencerama-days-2018/.