New location, layout for Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days
As the Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days festival marks its 43rd year, visitors will notice some changes.
“We have so many new things for 2026,” said Sara Habberfield, Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days president, in an email interview. “Starting with a new, larger location and layout, larger entrance and an even larger parking lot, (as well as) new to the festival food vendors (and a) new band lineup. We have expanded our crafter and vendor village with over 40 booths.”
The festival takes place from 6-10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13; 6 p.m. to midnight Friday, Aug. 14; 1 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Aug. 15; and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at the corner of State Street and Towne Place Road in downtown Hampshire.
It includes nightly entertainment, a carnival, beer garden, food vendors, a craft show and more. See the full schedule at hcccd.com.
The music lineup features Smokin’ Gunz from 7-10 p.m. Thursday; Hillbilly Rockstarz at 6:30 p.m. and Semple at 9:30 p.m. Friday; Trending Time at 1:30 p.m., Back Country Roads at 5:30 p.m. and Modern Day Romeos after a 9:15 p.m. fireworks display on Saturday; and Whiskey Romance Band at 1:30 p.m. Sunday.
Other highlights are Touch-A-Truck from 1-3 p.m. Saturday and kids’ activities throughout the weekend. On Sunday, there will be a parade at noon along State Street, a free corn roast starting at 1 p.m. and ice cream-eating contest at 3 p.m. Also new this year is a 50/50 raffle with a chance to take home up to $5,000 cash.
Habberfield says the festival is truly a community effort. A core committee of 10 volunteers spends 11 months planning the festival.
“We spend numerous hours making sure no detail goes unnoticed,” she said. “For setup and during the festival, that effort is supported by many additional volunteers from the community who generously donate their time to help the event run smoothly. Their commitment and passion are what make this cherished tradition possible year after year.”
Admission is free, and the event benefits local charities, according to Habberfield.
“We support so many local organizations, like the Hampshire/Burlington Food Pantry, Hampshire Historical Society, Hampshire Township Seniors and more.”
Habberfield shared some tips for those planning to attend.
“Our biggest tip is come early and plan to stay awhile,” she said. “Take advantage of the carnival ride wristband deals, check the entertainment schedule so you don’t miss your favorite band, try something new from one of our food vendors. Most importantly, enjoy the community atmosphere and don’t forget to bring a comfy chair!”