Tractor Show harvests a big crowd each year at Porter Harvest Festival

Farming is the main reason for the development and growth of many small Midwestern communities. Porter is no different.
That's one of the reasons why Kenny and Linda Hennen started the Hennen's Tractor & Equipment Show as part of the Porter Harvest Festival 15 years ago. The annual show, sponsored by Hennen's Lawnmower Service, has been widely popular with farmers in the area.
"Kenny had farmed for many years before we got married," said Linda. "He wanted to do something for Harvest Festival so we started the tractor show. We put up signs and posters and we had 48 tractors the first year."
The annual show has increased in popularity over the years and now draws around 80 tractors and equipment of various models and years to the show located on the north end of Sunrise Drive in Porter.
"People bring their tractors from all over," said Linda.
Some years have featured a demonstration of yesteryear like corn shelling. This year will include a hayloader demonstration.
The Porter Senior King and Queen pick their favorite tractor each year. This year's choice will receive a plaque.
At the end of the show, drivers of the tractors climb aboard and parade around town.
The Hennen's Tractor Show is just one of many events and activities going on for Porter Harvest Festival Aug. 19-21.
The Tractor Show also includes a kiddie pedal pull. Returning this year is the adult class of the pedal pull in which men and women must pedal the kiddie tractor. That brought a lot of laughs and cheers last year.
Back by popular demand for the second year is the Co-Ed, All-Age Kickball Tournament that was as much fun to watch as it is to participate. That will be held on Saturday, Aug. 14. Teams are still needed and the deadline for registration is Monday, Aug. 15.
"We have a couple of new events being offered by the Porter Volunteer Fire Department," said Josh Sumption, one of the Harvest Festival coordinators. "The Pancake and Sausage Breakfast will be on Saturday morning at the Porter Hall, and the Fire Department Water Fights will be at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday. Area fire departments are invited to take part."
The dance this year will be moved indoors to the Porter Community Hall and features DJ Steve Coequyt from 9 p.m. to midnight.
The Kid's Carnival will be returning this year and will be held from 1-3 p.m. on the north lawn of the Porter Community Hall.
There will not be a 5k run at this year's Harvest Festival. In its place will be a Fun Walk With Pets.
"Pets should be on leashes and we also please ask that your pet doesn’t eat someone else’s pet," Sumption joked. "There will be pet walk souvenirs for all who complete the walk."
Harvest Festival also features its annual North vs. South side of the track Co-ed Softball Tournament, city-wide lawn mower run, plenty of food, and a grilling competition.
Harvest Festival draws a big crowd each year because of the community spirit.
For more information on times and events, view the Harvest Festival ad in this issue of the Mascot below.