Small-Town Magic at the Dows Corn Days Parade

 

Some weekends remind you exactly why you love living in a small town.

This year's Dows Corn Days Parade was one of those days.

For the first time, The Dows Market on Main was part of the parade, and it couldn't have come together any better. Hayley's uncle, Tony, generously loaned us his beautiful antique Ford truck, a 1941 F1, which became the perfect vintage backdrop for representing the Dows Market on Main.

Before parade day, Hayley from hayleyco designs, spent time putting together 300 treat packets to hand out along the route. Each tiny bag included a cute "Barrels of Fun" sticker that Hayley designed to promote the Dows Market on Main Y'allternative Market, along with a classic root beer barrel candy. It was such a fun little combination, and we hoped people would enjoy it as much as she enjoyed making them.

Of course, I couldn't leave the truck undecorated!

Since our market colors are teal, burnt orange, and cream, I made oversized yarn tassels in each color and strung them into a garland that draped along both sides of the truck bed. It was the perfect handmade touch and made the truck feel like us.

While Hayley and I waved from the back of the truck, Hayley's husband drove us through town. Their son helped toss candy from the cab, making it a true family effort from start to finish.

One of my favorite parts of the parade was spotting so many familiar faces. Friends, family, neighbors, and supporters lined the streets, and there were plenty of smiles and waves exchanged as we rolled by. Small-town events have a way of making everyone feel connected, and this parade was no exception.

By the time we reached the end of the route, we had handed out almost all 300 treat packets! Watching kids (and plenty of adults!) eagerly grab the little bags made all the preparation worthwhile.

Hayley and I even decided to lean into the fun by wearing cowboy hats during the parade. Between the antique truck, the handmade yarn decorations, and our hats, we felt right at home celebrating one of Iowa's favorite summer traditions.

After the parade, I headed over to the park to enjoy the rest of the Corn Days festivities. It's always fun to slow down, visit with people, and soak in everything that makes this celebration such a beloved tradition.

Days like this remind me that Hippie Stitches is about so much more than crochet. It's about creativity, community, and showing up for the little towns that make Iowa feel like home.

A huge thank you to Tony for loaning us his beautiful truck, to all of Hayley's familiy for helping make the parade such a success, and to everyone who came out to celebrate Dows Corn Days with us. Your smiles, waves, and excitement made the day one we'll remember for a long time.

Here's to another year of handmade creations, small-town adventures, and making memories together.

See you October 10th at the Dows Market on Main Y'allternative Event!