From long standing traditions and regional festivals to family activities, recreation events, and community celebrations, the Worthington area offers events throughout the year that bring residents and visitors together. These events help showcase the people, culture, businesses, and experiences that make Nobles County a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
King Turkey Day 5K and 10K Run
Join the festive energy of King Turkey Day with the 5K & 10K Runs, community favorites that kick off the celebration with movement and fun. Whether you’re racing or walking, the courses offer a scenic tour of Worthington’s neighborhoods, while participants cheer each other on in true community spirit. Post-race, enjoy the rest of the day’s parade, live music, family-friendly activities, and the beloved "Great Gobbler Gallop" turkey race. Lace up your shoes and be part of this autumn tradition!
Worthington Farmer’s Market
The Worthington Farmer’s Market is where our community comes alive. Held June-October every Tuesday afternoon at the downtown 10th Street Pavilion, and Saturday morning in the ACE parking lot.
Discover fresh local produce, bakery items, eggs, meats, artisan goods, and more—all grown or crafted by local producers.
Kids’ activities add extra fun and learning—with opportunities to earn tokens to spend at vendors.
King Turkey Day
An autumn tradition since 1939, King Turkey Day kicks off with a free pancake breakfast and features a vibrant parade, marching bands, inflatables, live music, food, and more. It's also home to the “Great Gobbler Gallop,” a live turkey race between Worthington’s Paycheck and Ruby Begonia from Cuero, Texas.
Windsurfing Regatta & Music Festival
Each year the Regatta strives to promote the windsurfing industry, racing, and recreational sailing for national and international participants. The music festival has evolved over the years and is for all people to enjoy music in an amazing outdoor setting. The festival is free to the public and is a cannot-miss annual item on your calendar.
International Festival
Celebrate the many cultures in Worthington at the International Festival. This colorful festival is every July at the Nobles County Government Center lawn in downtown Worthington. A talent contest, music and food from around the world, children’s activities and much more make this an event you do not want to miss.
Nobles County Fair
There is sure to be family fun for everyone at the Nobles County Fair held each August at the Nobles County Fairgrounds. A full carnival runs Thursday through Sunday and grandstand events Friday through Sunday. All 4-H and open class entries from livestock, to photography to flowers are on display throughout the fair. Visit Machinery Row on Stower Drive. And of course there is plenty of tasty fair food available. There is no admission charge to get on the grounds!
The "Amazing" Worthington City Band
2024 marks 131 years from the beginnings of a municipal band in Worthington to what we now call The “Amazing” Worthington City Band. We are proud of this long-standing history and the tradition of Wednesday night summer concerts in the park. We hope you will all come back each summer and join us for another season of great music and beautiful weather! See you then!!
Worthington Area Symphony Orchestra
The WASO was founded in 2010 to support quality arts education for residents of all ages, providing qualified musicians a venue to pursue their musical interests.
Beach Bash
One of the most anticipated annual events is the Beach Bash. Started in 2015 and takes place every year on July 3rd. This free celebration is open to the public and held at Centennial Park. The festivities kick off in the afternoon and continue until sunset and wrap up with fireworks over Lake Okabena. Attendees can enjoy a variety of activities, including live music, food, beverages, and games. It’s a fantastic way for the community to come together and celebrate the summer season and to raise money as 100% of the events proceeds to The Lake Okabena Improvement Association.
Farm to Table
The Agribusiness Committee of FORWARD Worthington partners with Nobles County Corn & Soybean Growers Association, Nobles County Dairy Association, Rock/Nobles Cattleman, Nobles County Farm Bureau and local Farmer’s Market participants to do a fundraising event that features local products and local agricultural production by serving a home cooked meal on the streets of Worthington, picnic style. The objective is to raise funds to create scholarships for high school graduates entering college in an agricultural related field.
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Wander Worthington
Come and "Wander Worthington" by using the new community app that highlights the Nobles County area.
