It’s a big event with a secret mission.
Lure shoppers from across the state and nation to northern Kansas with the promise of antiques, collectibles, crafts, garage sale finds and other treasures.
But all along US36, communities band together the third weekend in September to introduce potential travelers to the idea that there’s plenty to see and do along a highway that’s easy to travel.
Vendors were already setting up in Belleville on Monday for the 12th edition of the US36 Treasure Hunt, which officially runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday, September 14-16.
“We had more hits earlier this year on our website,” says Paul Kallman, Scandia, president of the US36 Highway Association. Organizers never know how many people will show up until the weekend.
The event features businesses, vendors and private individuals who set up not only on US36, but in the downtown areas of the communities along the route.
Read more: Belleville Telescope.