Laura Days 2025: Celebrating 49 Years in Burr Oak

Laura Days 2025: Celebrating 49 Years in Burr Oak

Posted: June 30, 2025

Children and adults in period costumes sit in an old-fashioned classroom with green curtains and wooden desks.

The 49th annual Laura Days celebration brought history, music, and community spirit to Burr Oak this past weekend! Visitors gathered at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum to honor the legacy of Laura Ingalls Wilder and experience pioneer history first-hand.

Saturday’s festivities featured author and historian Cindy Wilson, who shared the true story of the Hard Winter of 1880–1881, famously captured in Laura’s book The Long Winter. Guests also enjoyed meeting Mr. William Reed, Laura’s schoolteacher in 1876, portrayed by Luke Miller from Polk City. Visitors had the chance to interact with Mr. Reed in the one-room schoolhouse and join him for games and races in the park.

On Sunday, the celebration continued with “Gospel Favorites” performed by Brad Boice at Barney’s Bar and Grill patio. Picnic tables were provided, with coffee and cookies available for guests, and a rain location set at the Burr Oak Lutheran Church.

The museum also announced the winners of the Little Miss Laura contest for the 2025–2026 year. Congratulations to Sofia and Natalie, who tied with perfect scores in knowledge, essay, costume, poise, and presentation. These young ambassadors will represent the museum in parades, fundraisers, and community events throughout the year.

Laura Days 2025 was a wonderful weekend of history, music, and community celebration. The museum looks forward to seeing these new ambassadors and welcoming visitors back for another exciting season!

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