This weekend, join your neighbors — old friends and new — for a slice of Perryville tradition. After all, some things only get better with age.
For 124 summers, Perryville has gathered under the shade of old oaks and the laughter of neighbors for a celebration that’s part homecoming, part summer festival, and all heart. The Seminary Picnic, a tradition that began as a humble potluck in Klump’s Grove, returns this weekend for its 124th year, with all the sights, sounds, and flavors that have made it a Perry County favorite for generations.
Hosted by St. Vincent de Paul Parish, the picnic has called its current grounds home since 1906. While times have changed, the event’s spirit remains the same: a weekend where families reconnect, friendly rivalries play out over washer tournaments, and children’s delighted shrieks echo from the historic 1905 Herschell-Spillman carousel.
This carousel, a rare gem from a bygone era, stands proudly as the picnic’s crown jewel. Its hand-carved horses— some lovingly restored, others bearing the marks of a century’s worth of riders — invite guests of all ages to take a spin through history.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. The picnic menu reads like a roll call of summer favorites: pork steaks hot off the grill, crispy fish, burgers, nachos, and more. Crafters and a bustling country store promise unique finds, while two stages keep toes tapping with live music all weekend long.
Whether you’re a bingo enthusiast, a washer tournament contender, or simply in search of a good meal and great company, there’s something for everyone at the Seminary Picnic.
The festivities kick off Friday, Aug. 1, and continue through Sunday, Aug. 3. The Seminary Picnic Grounds are located at 1816 W. Saint Joseph Street in Perryville. For a full schedule and more information, visit seminarypicnic.org.
