Five annual Lawrence and Douglas County events have been selected to receive a portion of $24,000 in funds from the Heritage Conservation Council.
This is the first year for the new Heritage Events and Celebration Fund program, intended to support annual events that celebrate the county’s living heritage.
The HCC received 12 applications seeking almost $78,000 in total funding, according to a news release from the county. Those selected for awards include:
- The St. John Mexican Fiesta, $5,667
- We Remember: Lawrence Annual Día de Muertos Celebration, $5,667
- Juneteenth Celebration 2025, $5,666
- Lawrence Jewish Community Congregation Annual Blintz Brunch, $3,000
- Vinland Fair, $4,000
The program was included in the Douglas County Commission’s 2025 budget.
“As supported by HCC’s strategic vision to support local heritage organizations and honor Douglas County’s under-told heritage stories, the program is designed to support event organizers for up to three years to sustain and enhance community events,” according to the release.
Last month, the HCC announced 12 projects selected to receive funds from the 2025 Natural and Cultural Heritage grant program.
Applications for the annual Natural and Cultural Heritage grants typically open in January. Learn more about the HCC via the county’s website, douglascountyks.org.
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