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Midwest Old Threshers announces 2025 entertainment lineup with a comedy twist
For the 75th anniversary of the Reunion, not only will Jeff Foxworthy take the stage, but 20 volunteers will act as this year’s grand marshals for the harvest day parade
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MT. PLEASANT — The Midwest Old Threshers Reunion is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a mix of country music and comedy, featuring performances by The Malpass Brothers, Cooper Alan, Priscilla Block, and a special Sunday night show by comedian Jeff Foxworthy.
Midwest Old Threshers Reunion Executive Director Terry McWilliams revealed the entertainment lineup during an Alive After Five event at the Temple Theater, a long-standing tradition where attendees watched a video announcement following a dinner served by the current Miss Sweet Sixteen court. McWilliams expressed excitement for this year’s event, which brings a new twist to the entertainment schedule.
“We’re going to have a great time this year at the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion,” McWilliams said. “The entertainment on the KILJ stage I told you was going to be different this year.”
The Malpass Brothers will open the performances on Thursday, Aug. 28. Known for their deep appreciation of classic country music, brothers Chris and Taylor Malpass have made a name for themselves by reviving the sounds of legends like Merle Haggard, Lefty Frizzell, and Hank Williams. Their harmonies and traditional country style have captivated audiences across the country.
On Friday, Aug. 29, Cooper Alan will take the stage. The rising country artist has built a strong following with his energetic performances, heartfelt songwriting, and humorous approach to country music.
“Friday night, Cooper Alan — if you noticed, he has 15 million followers on social media. Are we going to make room for 15 million people? I hope so,” McWilliams joked.
Alan’s recent singles have topped streaming charts, and his tours continue to sell out across the country.
Priscilla Block will perform on Saturday, Aug. 30. Block has made waves in country music with her blend of country-pop and southern rock, often referred to as the “Block Party sound.” She first gained attention with her hit song “Just About Over You,” which skyrocketed to the top of the country charts and earned a Platinum certification. She has continued to gain momentum with her relatable songwriting and empowering lyrics.
The most significant change to the entertainment lineup comes on Sunday, Aug. 31, when legendary comedian Jeff Foxworthy takes the stage instead of a country music act.
Foxworthy is widely recognized as one of the most successful comedians of all time, with multiple Grammy nominations, bestselling books, and record-breaking comedy albums. His signature “You might be a redneck” jokes and witty take on family life have made him a household name for decades.
“You’re all looking at me like, ‘What the heck did you do on Sunday night?’” McWilliams said following the announcement. “Sometimes laughter is the best medicine. And the way our world is going right now, we need to have laughter. We need to have fun.”
For Sunday’s Show, the entire grandstand will be reserved seating. However, seating on the track below the grandstand will remain first come, first served.
As part of the 75th-anniversary celebration, the Harvest Day Parade will feature 20 grand marshals — a significant departure from the usual one or two. This year, the honor goes to 20 dedicated volunteers who have contributed their time and talents to making the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion a success over the years.
“At this event, it’s my privilege to announce the Harvest Day Parade Grand Marshal,” McWilliams said. “And this year, we are celebrating 75 years of Midwest Old Threshers Reunion by honoring our volunteers as our grand marshals. I have asked 20 different amazing folks from across the country that give their time and talents to be considered our grand marshals this year for the parade. So, we have 20 different folks that are representing our grand marshals this year in the Harvest Day Parade.”
The parade, set for Wednesday, Aug. 28, will serve as the official kickoff for the five-day event. McWilliams hinted at additional surprises to celebrate the 75th anniversary, adding, “There will be some other interesting things that you'll see as we're celebrating the 75 in the Harvest Day Parade.”
The Midwest Old Threshers Reunion has been a beloved tradition in Mt. Pleasant since its founding in 1949. The event is recognized as one of the nation’s premier steam shows, featuring live demonstrations of antique farm equipment, steam trains, and historical exhibits. Visitors can explore the Log Village, where they can experience quilting, soap making, and rug weaving, or visit the North Village, which transports guests to the Old West with gunslingers and saloon girls.
The 2025 Reunion runs from Aug. 28 through Sept. 1, and tickets are available at shop.oldthreshers.com. Multiday admission is $30 if purchased by May 31, increasing to $40 on June 1. Single-day admission is $15, and kids 10 and under are admitted free.
With a star-studded lineup, a change-up comedy performance, and a heartfelt tribute to its dedicated volunteers, the 75th Midwest Old Threshers Reunion promises to be a milestone event filled with music, laughter, and nostalgia.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
