KENTON, Ohio — Now in its 17th year, Gene Autry Days is scheduled for June 26 and 27 at the Hardin County Fairgrounds, located south of Kenton, Ohio on Fairground Road, between U.S. Highway 68 and state Route 31.
The event will be held in the Community Building June 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and June 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Gene Autry Days commemorates the western star’s 1938 visit to Kenton. At the time, the Kenton Hardware Company was producing the Autry Repeating Cap Pistol, which sold over 6 million worldwide.
Entertainment
This year’s schedule includes nationally known entertainer Paul Belanger, “The Oklahoma Yodelin’ Cowboy”; John Buttram, a celebrity sound-a-like and Western humorist; Steve Mitchell, “America’s Singing Cowboy”; and Johnny Western, former featured singer/personal guitarist for Gene Autry.
More than 40 tables of western collectibles and memorabilia, cap guns and other old toys will be displayed. Many Western look-a-likes will also be on hand for autographs and photos, plus a Lil’ Cowpokes Look-A-Like contest will be held for children.
Sunday
New this year is a Cowboy Church from 10 to 11 a.m. June 27 and a silent auction of Gene Autry items including a denim blazer custom made for Autry.
The Ohio State Championship Fast Draw Match and Hardin County Joy Riders 4-H Club will also be hosting events at the Hardin County Fairgrounds that weekend.
Admission to Gene Autry Days is $5 per person and children 12 and under are free. Parking is free.
For more information, contact the Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance at 419-673-4131 or e-mail alliance@hardinohio.org.
