Special to the Times Vedette
Panorama Days 2025 will be remembered as a record-breaking year for Panora’s beloved summer festival with the largest-ever turnout for both the 5K Run/Walk and the Kids Fishing Derby. Crowds filled the streets for the parade, enjoyed live music, and cheered on community favorites like the Chicken Drop, Bass Fishing Tournament, Bags Tournament, and more.
“This year was a shining example of small-town pride,” Chamber Coordinator Erica Matthies said. “From sunrise events to late-night music, the community showed up in full force to celebrate, participate and make memories together.”
Share your feedback and win chamber bucks
The chamber is asking the community to help shape future celebrations, whether you attended Panorama Days 2025 or not. Every completed survey will be entered into a drawing for Chamber Bucks, which are redeemable at participating local businesses.
Surveys must be completed by Aug. 31 to be eligible for the drawing. Include your name and email. Fill out survey here.
2025 event highlights
- 5K Run/Walk – The largest field yet with top times from Luke Kading (19:23), Paul Kading (19:35) and Kiera Andersen (19:36).
- Kids Fishing Derby – A record 114 kids participated with Alister Livingston reeling in the biggest fish at 20 inches to take top honors.
- Bass Fishing Tournament – 15 boats competed; Nolan Ponstein won with 19.74 pounds and the tournament’s biggest bass at 5.12 pounds.
- Parade – A showcase of floats, antique cars, tractors, golf carts and more. Winners included Guthrie County State Bank (Commercial), Panora Garden Club (Organization), and Off Course Golf Carts (Golf Cart Category).
- Alumni Golf Tournament – The team of Crandall, Grove, Pudenz and Uhlman took the win while Mark Benton thrilled spectators with a hole-in-one on hole No. 8.
- Music & Entertainment – Live performances kept the town square buzzing, complemented by food vendors, family fun and the always-popular Chicken Drop.
Citizen of the year
The Chamber recognized JoAnn Johnson as the 2025 citizen of the year, honoring her dedicated service and lasting contributions to the Panora community.
Looking ahead: Panorama Days 2026
Next year, Panora marks 175 years since its founding, and the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary.
“Panorama Days 2026 (July 31 – Aug. 2) will be our most memorable festival yet,” Matthies said. “We are planning expanded events, historical tributes and special highlights to honor our past while celebrating our future.”