By AMBER PATINO
The 57th Annual Wausau Fun Day and Possum Festival returns Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, celebrating decades of small‑town tradition. This year’s theme, “Patriotic Possum – America 250,” honors the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Festivities begin at 6 p.m. Friday, July 31, at the Possum Palace, 3121 Possum Palace Drive, with the Possum King and Queen Pageant, followed by the Talent Search Contest at 7 p.m. Attendees wishing to participate in the pageant should arrive before 6 p.m. to register.
Saturday’s events, August 1, start early with the Possum Trot 5K at Wausau Assembly of God, 3537 Washington Street. Registration opens at 6 a.m., and the race begins at 7 a.m. A Pancake Breakfast will be served from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Wausau Masonic Hall.
The parade will line up at 8 a.m. and begin at 9 a.m., leading into welcoming ceremonies at the Possum Palace at 10 a.m. Saturday’s schedule includes live music, vendors and booths, children’s games, the Corn Pone Contest, Possum Auction, and traditional favorites such as the rooster crowing, cow lowing, and hog calling contests. Country artist Andy Griggs will perform during the festival’s main entertainment lineup.
The weekend concludes with the Donkey Ball Game at 7 p.m. Saturday.
All proceeds from the Possum Festival benefit the Wausau Community Development Club, which funds two four‑year scholarships for Washington County graduating seniors.
Ali Moreland 
SKYLA CARTER