Centerville is getting ready for the 77th Annual Pancake Day celebration, with a full weekend of activities, live music, parades, food, and family fun.
The celebration will continue rain or shine, with events planned throughout the weekend. Organizers remind attendees to follow the Pancake Day Facebook page for the latest updates. The Miss Pancake Day Pageant is the only event that may be moved indoors due to weather. Any location change will be announced by 3:30 p.m. Saturday.
Friday Activities
Friday’s events include Lunch on the Courtyard from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The $12 meal includes a choice of pulled pork or chicken, pasta salad or potato salad, chips, a cookie, and water. Miss Pancake Day contestants will serve the meal, with all proceeds going toward the Silver Cord Scholarship program.
Friday Night Live will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. on the Amcor Main Stage, featuring free live music from XOLEX. Attendees can also visit the beverage garden and watch the Big Red football game on the big screen.
Saturday’s Pancake Day Events
The Pancake Tent will serve free pancakes from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., thanks to Centerville Hy-Vee. Gourmet pancakes with toppings, along with bacon or sausage, will be available for $5 per plate.
As part of this year’s Life, Liberty & the Pursuit of Pancakes theme and America 250 celebration, active-duty service members and veterans can enjoy free gourmet pancakes.
The Kiddie Parade will begin at 10 a.m., with registration opening at 8:30 a.m. The Big Parade is scheduled for 1 p.m., following the Fun Run.
Those planning to participate in the Fun Run and Walk are reminded that registration increases to $30 per person after 11 p.m. Friday. Participants can preregister online to save money and help volunteers prepare for the event.
Additional Weekend Activities
Nearly 30 local businesses are taking part in the Decorations of Independence Window Contest. Voting will remain open until noon on Pancake Day, and winners in each category will receive a $350 cash prize.
Pancake Day merchandise, including T-shirts, sweatshirts, and buttons, is still available. The PACT office will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Remaining merchandise will be sold at the Information Trailer on Saturday while supplies last.
Free 2026 Pancake Day Guides are available at the PACT office, GoPitchTV studio, local grocery stores, and downtown retailers. Guides will also be available at the Information Trailer on Pancake Day.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to review the event schedule, plan for parking and street closures, and enjoy everything the 77th Annual Pancake Day celebration has to offer.
Source: Pancake Day organizers.
Photo Source: Pancake Day organizers.
