Parade

Ashmore Harvest Festival Parade

The Ashmore Harvest Festival Parade will start at 10:00am on Saturday, October 12. AHF is proud to host the Legion (American Flag Presentation), first responders, marching bands, cheerleaders, Shrine riders, political representatives & candidates, racers, and many more! The parade will start and finish at the park, travelling in a clockwise direction around town. Spectators may line up anywhere along the route (please be respectful guests on other people's properties).

Please note that traffic will be interrupted and/or re-routed. Commuters passing through town and residents who live along the route should plan accordingly. Traffic along Route 16 will NOT be affected. Special THANK YOU!! to the Ashmore Fire Protection District and the Coles County Sheriff's Department for assisting with traffic and keeping our spectators safe!

Grand Marshals

Ashmore Harvest Festival is honored to present Rod & Cindy Richey as the 2024 Grand Marshals.

Rod and Cindy Richey, lifelong contributors to Ashmore, are the perfect embodiment of community spirit and dedication. Rod grew up in Ashmore, where his roots run deep. In 1975, he married Cindy, and together they’ve built a life centered on God, family, service, and their shared love for their hometown.

Rod served the town faithfully on the Village Board of Trustees for 13 years (1994-2007), lending his insight and leadership to help guide the community’s development. He also spent nearly 15 years on the volunteer fire department (1982ish-1996ish), demonstrating his commitment to the safety and well-being of his neighbors.

Cindy also made her mark on Ashmore through nearly 10 years of service on the Board (2011-2021). Her business-minded insight and attention to detail were instrumental in numerous Village projects and events. One of her final and most cherished accomplishments was helping to install new playground equipment at Village Park, ensuring future generations of children would have a safe place to play and grow.

Beyond their public roles, Rod and Cindy’s contributions to Ashmore are as lasting as they are meaningful. They own Richey’s Furniture, a thriving business and a community landmark for nearly five decades. Their donation of a charming gazebo to Serenity Corner provides a peaceful gathering place for residents to enjoy.

Together, Rod and Cindy raised two children who continue the family’s tradition of success and service. Alicia is an Assistant Vice President at AT&T, living in Lebanon, IL, and Jeremy serves as the resident judge of Moultrie County in Sullivan, IL. They are also the proud grandparents of three grandchildren, whose visits bring joy and energy to their lives.

As Grand Marshals of the 2024 Ashmore Harvest Festival, Rod and Cindy Richey are honored for their enduring legacy of faith, service, community, and family, reflecting the very best of Ashmore.

Lining Up