The 34th Annual Coca-Cola Days returns to Atlantic September 25-26, bringing Coca-Cola collectors and enthusiasts from across the country to the Cass County Community Center. Recognized as the second-largest Coca-Cola collectors show in the United States, this year’s event will feature longtime favorites and several new family activities in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
The theme, “An American Tradition,” brings a little baseball and apple pie to the weekend, along with plenty of Coca-Cola collecting, food and entertainment.
The celebration begins Friday evening with the Community Tailgate Party from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the Coca-Cola Collectors Sneak Peek from 6 to 8 p.m. Both events are open to the public and will be held at the Cass County Community Center.
Saturday’s Coca-Cola Show, Swap & Sell runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., giving collectors and visitors a chance to browse Coca-Cola memorabilia and visit with fellow enthusiasts.
Two raffles will also be held this year. One features a Coca-Cola quilt made by Dave Andersen and generously donated back to the Coca-Cola Days Committee by the Halder Family. The second includes a variety of Coca-Cola merchandise, including a limited-edition Coca-Cola cooler and two reclining yard chairs.
Tickets for each raffle are $5 each or five for $20 and are available at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce and during Saturday’s event. Winners will be announced at 2 p.m. and do not need to be present to win.
Among the new additions is the Apple Pie Baking Contest, featuring youth, adult and commercial divisions. Judging begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, with winners announced at 11 a.m.
The Baseball/Softball Throwing Contest, hosted by Atlantic Parks & Recreation and the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce, begins at 11:30 a.m. Participants will have three chances to record their fastest throw, with prizes awarded in grade school and middle school, high school, and adult divisions. The contest is free, and day-of registration will be available.
Families can also enjoy bounce houses, face painting and photo opportunities with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear. Food trucks, free root beer floats from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and live music by Dirt Road Divide round out Saturday’s activities.
With rain in the forecast, the Coca-Cola Days Committee is preparing to adjust plans as needed. Some activities may be moved indoors or have changes to their scheduled times or locations, but the celebration will go on.
“We’ve put a lot of work into adding more activities for families this year, and we’re excited to share them with the community,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “The weather may change a few of our plans, but we’re not letting it stop us! We encourage everyone to keep an eye on the Chamber’s Facebook page for updates throughout the weekend.”
For the latest announcements, schedule changes and weather-related updates, follow the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.
A full schedule and additional information can be found at www.atlanticiowa.com/event/coca-cola-days-2/. Questions can also be directed to the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce at 712-243-3017 or chamber@atlanticiowa.com.
Coca-Cola Days is sponsored by Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company.
