Celebrate Vesper and Zor Shriners join forces for historic parade and family festival

VESPER – Something special is coming to central Wisconsin this summer.
The Village of Vesper and the Zor Shriners of Wisconsin are joining together to create what is expected to be the largest and most entertaining parade in Vesper history as part of Celebrate Vesper 2026 on Saturday, July 18.
The day begins with a full lineup of family activities, including food trucks, craft vendors, children’s inflatables, live music, games, bingo, karaoke, a beer tent and community events throughout the day. The highlight of the celebration arrives at 11:30 a.m. when the Celebrate Vesper Community Parade steps off through downtown Vesper.
This year’s parade will feature Zor Shriners entertainment units traveling from communities across Wisconsin, including Madison, Green Bay, La Crosse, Sparta, Eau Claire, New Richmond, Wausau, Wisconsin Rapids, Montello, Edgerton, Milwaukee and many others. Colorful parade vehicles, mini cars, motorbikes, mystical creations, specialty units, clowns, entertainers and crowd favorites will fill the streets for a once-in-a-generation type parade.
“This is a unique opportunity for families and parade enthusiasts alike,” said Sir Steve Livernash, Potentate of Zor Shriners. “It is rare to see so many Shrine units participating together in one community parade. Combined with everything Celebrate Vesper already offers; this will be one of Wisconsin’s premier family events of 2026.”

Following the parade, visitors are invited to the park for the Shriner Unit Showcase, where families can get up close to parade vehicles, meet Shriners from across the state, learn about Shriners Children’s and enjoy free activities for children, including balloon animals and Shriners trading cards.
The event also serves as a celebration of two historic milestones: 250 years of American freedom and 100 years of Shriners Children’s Chicago, making the day even more meaningful for families and communities throughout Wisconsin.
Organizers expect large crowds and encourage visitors to arrive early, bring lawn chairs and plan to spend the entire day enjoying the festivities.
Whether you come for the parade, the food, the music, the family activities or to experience a small Wisconsin town at its best, Celebrate Vesper 2026 promises a day filled with laughter, patriotism, fellowship and memories that will last a lifetime.
Event highlights
• Community parade featuring Shrine units from across Wisconsin – 11:30 a.m.
• Shriner Unit Showcase in the park following the parade
• Food trucks and craft vendors
• Kids inflatables, penny scramble and pedal pull
• Live music throughout the day
• Beer tent, bingo, karaoke, and family activities
• Free balloon animals and Shriners trading cards for kids