Party in the Park Returns to Russell Springs – June 14th!
- Kristina Hemel
- Jun 10
- 3 min read
It’s that time of year again! The Butterfield Trail Museum’s Party in the Park is back in Russell Springs, Kansas on Saturday, June 14th, promising a full day of fun, food, music, and community spirit — all to support one of the region’s most treasured historical landmarks.
We caught up with event organizer Troy Wright, who shared how this annual event has grown into a must-attend tradition that benefits the Butterfield Trail Museum.
“It started small,” Troy recalls, “just a little music in the park after the old trail ride fundraiser ended. But over time, we brought it back, added more, and now it’s a full-blown day of fun for the whole family — all while giving back to the museum.”
🐴 The Ride
Registration at 9 a.m. | Ride departs at 9:30 a.m.The day kicks off with a scenic trail ride through the countryside. Riders must check in, sign a waiver, and wear a wristband. The ride begins and ends in Russell Springs and aims to return before noon so everyone can grab lunch and prepare for the afternoon festivities.
🎠 Family Fun “Rodeo” – 2:00 p.m.
This year introduces a Family Fun Day instead of a formal rodeo — with events like barrel racing, keyhole races, flag races, and other activities for all ages. Registration starts at 1 p.m., and entry is free. Want to join the fun? Message the Butterfield Trail Museum Facebook page to get connected with the organizer in charge of the arena events.
🍖 Free-Will Dinner & Live Music – Evening
After the sun starts to dip, things heat up in the park with:
Smoked brisket and hot dogs – free-will donation
Live music from Ricky Noss – a one-man-band sensation with roots in South Africa and a sound that recently wowed Russell Springs locals during a preview performance
“He’s got real talent,” says Troy. “People were coming out of the woodworks to hear him last time.”
Bring your lawn chairs and come ready to relax under the stars with good music, good food, and even better company.
🎟️ Raffles & Auction Items
All throughout the day, visitors can buy raffle tickets for a wide variety of donated items:
Beef gift cards
A half hog (with or without processing)
And the highlight: a stunning pair of German massacre-era moccasins, up for auction
100% of proceeds from these raffles, meals, and donations go directly back to the Butterfield Trail Museum.
“We couldn’t do it without the incredible support from our donors, volunteers, and everyone who shows up,” says Troy. “It means the world to us.”
🏕️ Camping Available
Porter Park will be open for campers, making it easy to turn your day of fun into a weekend getaway.
🏛️ Support the Museum
Can’t make it on June 14th? Make plans to stop by the Butterfield Trail Museum another time this summer. The history on display is one-of-a-kind, and your visit helps preserve the stories of the Old West and the Butterfield trail.
For more information, visit the Butterfield Trail Museum Facebook page and send a message.
See you June 14th in Russell Springs for Party in the Park — where history, music, and community come together!
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