Kansas A to Z: ‘A’ is for Amelia Earhart Festival

Each July, thousands of people flock to Atchison for the Amelia Earhart Festival, named in honor of the legendary aviatrix and Atchison native.

And while the festival, set for its 23rd year July 19 and 20, includes music, food, crafts, children’s activities, a carnival, fireworks and more to appeal to every member of the family, the primary mission continues to be to honor the memory of Earhart, who was born July 24, 1897, in Atchison.

“We are constantly trying to make things better and now, as we look at new and different things, we’re trying to focus more on what we can do that would add to the awareness and education in the spirit of Amelia,″ festival coordinator Jacque Pregont said. “How can we inspire kids? How can we encourage them to think outside the box and follow the dream, whatever those dreams are? That’s what she did, and it wasn’t always easy for her.″