OUR MISSION

Freedom Fest began in 2003 by Emporia Main Street volunteers to honor all Veterans and their families through a series of competitive, physical and community gathering events as part of the  of the All Veterans Tribute week.  The All Vets Tribute is  held annually throughout the founding city of Veterans Day, Emporia, Kansas. (Learn more about All Veterans Day - Founding City Emporia, Kansas).  Emporia Freedom Fest is held the Sunday before All Veterans Day with all events starting and ending at the Emporia All Veterans Memorial.

​

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Originally a small and informal 5K run/walk, the event is now a 5k Freedom Run/Walk,  a 16 mile or 40 mile Freedom Ride (self-paced) through the Flint Hills and a unique, very competitive, physically challenging, and rewarding three event competition called the Spur Challenge.

​

LONG-TERM PARTNERS AND FRIENDS

Started by Emporia Main Street and Soldiers of the Kansas Army National Guard, Emporia Freedom fest has partnered for over fifteen years with organizations such as the City of Emporia, KVOE Family of Radio Stations, Gravel City Adventure and Supply Co, Lyon County State Bank, the Emporia Recreation Commission, The All Veterans Memorial Committee, and the local units of the Kansas National Guard just to name a few!

​

AMAZING LOCATION - FANTASTIC CAUSE

All events normally  start and finish at the beautiful All Veterans Memorial and Soden's Grove in Emporia Kansas. We hope you will come and visit this beautiful Memorial Park in Emporia ,Kansas.   All events recognize the sacrifice of All Veterans and their families for our Nation.  Net proceeds are donated to 635th Armor / 137th Infantry Regiment Scholarship Fund and the All Veterans Memorial fund (local /regional charitable funds and organizations.)

​

 

FOUNDING CITY OF VETERANS DAY

Emporia, Kansas is not only the founding city of Veterans day but home to  the beautiful All Veterans Memorial (host site) and many armor, cavalry and combat arms veterans who wish to continue honoring and supporting the current members of the military and veterans.  The Spur Challenge is one of many events held in November during All Veterans Weeks to honor all our Veterans. (See allveteransday.org to learn more)

​