By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
Superhero Health Fair Aug. 11
Panorama High School will be the site of a “superhero health fair” from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11. There will be inflatables and other fun activities for kids, along with free school supplies and the opportunity to have a physical exam, immunizations and even a haircut. Everyone is welcome to come get ready for the upcoming school year.
Camp Perseid Aug. 12
As part of the yearlong celebration of Springbrook State Park’s 100th year, anyone interested in watching the Perseid meteor shower is invited to reserve a camping spot at the park (2437 160th Road, Guthrie Center) for the overnight of Wednesday, Aug. 12. The annual Perseid meteor shower is one of the year’s best meteor-viewing opportunities. This event is only open to those camping. Campers will meet at the campground gazebo to enjoy free s’mores at 9:30 p.m., with group viewing of the meteor shower scheduled 10 p.m. to midnight. No equipment is needed, since meteors are fast-moving and visible with the naked eye. Because of the new moon on Aug. 12, the sky will be very dark, which will increase the chances of seeing lots of meteors. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket. Questions? Call 641-295-6028. The event is free, but campsites require registration and payment. To reserve a camping spot, go to http://iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com
Blood Drive in Guthrie Center Aug. 13
LifeServe Blood Center will hold a blood drive at First Christian Church (105 North Fourth St.) from 2:30 6 p.m. on Aug. 13. Those interested may register for a time slot at www.lifeservebloodcenter.org
Fall foraging Aug. 19 at Springbrook
Springbrook State Park, 2437 160th Road, Guthrie Center, will be the site of a late summer/early fall foraging event. Everyone is welcome to join naturalist Anne Riordan on a hike to gather wild edibles in the park and then learn how to prepare them. The event begins at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Participation is limited to 15 registrants. Cost is $20 per person. To register, go to https://forms.gle/6gCV2Ajatzpy8Lis6
Little Chargers Grill-out Aug. 24
The public is invited to support the Little Chargers Early Learning Center by enjoying a meal of burgers, chips and dessert on Monday, Aug. 24 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. (or until sold out). The meal is available for a freewill donation. Little Chargers is at 207 Park Ave. in Guthrie Center.
Free grief support group in Panora this fall
Beginning Sept. 8 and running through Dec. 8, a free grief support group will meet at the Panora Public Library (102 North First St.) on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. To register, go to www.griefshare.org or call Carla Kem at 641-332-3006.
BBQ Cook-off in Stuart Sept. 18-19
Fun and food will be enjoyed at the Best of the Block BBQ Cook-off in downtown Stuart on Sept. 18 and 19. The fest kicks off on Friday, Sept. 18 with a freewill donation chili feed at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 offers a Legion breakfast, games and kids’ events, caricatures, a vendor fair, BBQ awards, pie auction and raffle, BBQ meat fest and street dance with live music. The complete schedule can be viewed on the Facebook page of Stuart Best of the Block BBQ. The event will raise funds for the Cottage Pantry and the American Legion.
Blues and BBQ Aug. 29 at Boulder Beach
On Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4-7 p.m., great music and food will be on tap at Lake Panorama’s Boulder Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to listen to live music by Brick’N Bob Duo. Tickets cost $40 each and can be purchased from any LPA or LPN member, or by emailing Shanell.wagler@gmail.com. Proceeds will support improvements at Lake Panorama National.
Guthrie County Fair Sept. 3-7
The 2026 Guthrie County Fair will be held Sept. 3-7 at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds in Guthrie Center. The Guthrie County Fair has been an established venue since 1858. Located on the west edge of Guthrie Center, the fairground is centrally located in the county. The fair is held annually over Labor Day weekend, providing a long weekend of fun and family-oriented events. See details at www.guthriecountyfair.com.
Send your event information to rich@gctimesnews.com