Area fans celebrate Chiefs at Red Rally

By Jenna Wilson

Another year of Red Rally in downtown St. Joseph brought Chiefs fans together for a fun-filled Saturday evening at Civic Center Park to celebrate the upcoming season.

The event took place from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. where activities and fun for the whole family were on display. This year’s red rally included dozens of tailgaters, food vendors, bounce houses, fans of the Chiefs Kingdom and headline performances from Central High School senior, Hailey Hatley, and country singer Blane Howard.

Long time Kansas City Chiefs fans strutted their team gear from head to toe, including one tailgating group, ‘the 22 plus two club’. From handcrafted KC arrowhead hats to handcrafted Chiefs blazers; some fans were anticipating the return of this event.

“I’ve been going to games since 1992 and we’ve been tailgating in the same spot for the last 16 years now,” said Randy Widener, a member of the 22 plus two group. “We offer a different experience for all Chiefs fans to come to Arrowhead and just experience something different. We do line dances, have all kinds of music, and we do a lot of other good stuff. Anyone who sees us can feel free to join right in.”

Longtime Chiefs fans like Weidner and his group are all about ensuring everyone in the community has a good time. Which is why they spend time at the event offering free drinks and food for people as well.

“A lot of this food is donated by different businesses around town, and so they join in right along with us,” Widener added.

While residents and visitors had an eventful day welcoming the Chiefs to St. Joseph, the celebrations are just beginning.

Chiefs Training Camp will continue until Aug. 17 with several chances for fans to get autographs from their favorite players and watch them train for the 24’-25’ football season.

A complete schedule of training days, autograph sessions and training camp information can be found at www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp/schedule.