GREENVILLE – The 2025 Gathering at Garst, held this past weekend, July 26th and 27th, proved once again why it remains one of the area’s most beloved summer traditions. Despite a weekend of unpredictable weather, with intense heat and bouts of rain, visitors turned out to celebrate local history, art, music, and community spirit.
Saturday’s festivities saw decent crowds throughout the day, with many attendees taking in historical reenactments, artisan demonstrations, and the always-popular food and vendor areas. A highlight of the evening was the headline performance by Toys in the Attic, an Aerosmith tribute band, who rocked the crowd with an unforgettable set that wrapped just before a heavy downpour moved in.
Sunday brought calmer skies, allowing the event to continue with more relaxed browsing, music, and family-friendly programming. While attendance was slightly lower due to the weather, many vendors still reported positive sales, and community feedback has been overwhelmingly supportive.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who braved the elements to be part of this year’s Gathering,” said Darke County Parks Special Event Coordinator, Megan Hammaker. “It’s a testament to the strength and enthusiasm of our community, and the commitment of our volunteers and vendors, that the event remained such a success.”
Darke County Parks extend heartfelt thanks to all who helped bring the 2025 Gathering at Garst to life…
Event Sponsors: Presenting sponsors: UAW Local 2413, Maid Rite Sandwich Shop, and Wayne Healthcare. Leading Sponsors: Dave Knapp Ford, Greenville American Legion, VFW Post 7262, Greenville National Bank, MJS Plastics, Littman Thomas Agency, Farmer’s State Bank, Park National Bank, Arcon Builders, Loudy Office Machines, Rebsco, David Warner, and the Lowder Family. Supporting sponsors: Family Health of Darke County, Jim Buchy, Francis Furniture of Greenville, Law Office of Rudnick & Hosek, LTD, Greenville Federal Bank, Hittle GMC, 1 Shot Recycling, Troutwine Auto Sales, INC., Steve & Eileen Litchfield, Financial Achievement Services Inc, Annie Oakley Foundation, and Greenville ACE Hardware.
Special thanks to Garst Museum staff and volunteers, Frank Miller Lumber Company, Greenville Lions Club, Greenville Muzzleloaders, Howard Hanna Real Estate, the City of Greenville Street Department, Coffee Pot, Eikenberrys, Idle Hour Ranch, Quality Inn North, and Sarah Dunlap and Family.
Huge thank you to our event planning committee: David Warner, Stephanie Schieltz-Lowder, Cody Schneider, Lori Filburn, CJ Jasenski, Natasha Gage, and to our encampment planning committee: Andy Kenworthy, Diana Stebbins, Diana Kozuh, Carolyn Hollinger, Gary Moore, Mike & Christine Ewry, Bob Besecker, Tom Smith, Larry Young Dudley & Barbie Hansbarger, Jeff Brocious & Stefanie Priest
Massive thanks to each and every volunteer who assisted with setup and teardown, as well as operations during the event.
And of course, thank you to the vendors, reenactors, musicians, and attendees who braved the weather and came out to support the event this year!
Plans are already underway for next year’s celebration, and the team looks forward to welcoming everyone back in 2026.
For more information, visit www.darkecountyparks.org/gathering or follow Darke County Parks on social media.
