The Relay for Life of Mercer County returns to Aledo on Saturday, June 28, bringing an afternoon and evening of remembrance, celebration, and community support to Central Park. The event runs from 4 to 9:30 p.m. and includes a full schedule of activities, highlighted by the emotional Survivor Walk at 4:30 p.m. and the powerful Luminaria Ceremony at 9 p.m.
Organizers say this year’s Relay will again feature a partnership with the Aledo Fire Department, which will host its popular pancake and sausage dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. at the fire station. The meal is offered by donation, with proceeds supporting the American Cancer Society. Local musician and radio personality Jason Parchert will provide live music during the evening, performing in Central Park beginning around 6 p.m.
The Survivor Walk, a cherished Relay tradition, allows cancer survivors to take a lap through the park while being cheered on by community members. The event honors both the personal journeys of those who’ve battled cancer and the support systems that stand behind them. At 9 p.m., the luminaria walk begins, featuring personalized candlelit bags placed throughout the park in honor or memory of loved ones. The walk is led by a bagpiper, and the names of those being honored will be projected on the bandshell throughout the evening.
Luminaria bags are available for $10 each and can be purchased in advance or at the event. In addition to the walk and dinner, attendees can purchase an exclusive Isabelle Bloom Relay sculpture—available only through this event—as well as homemade desserts from participating Relay teams. These extras help raise additional funds for Relay’s mission and add a meaningful, local touch.
Cancer survivors are encouraged to register ahead of the event to receive a free survivor T-shirt. Registration is available by calling 1-800-227-2345 and selecting option 2. Shirts may take a couple of weeks to arrive, so early registration is recommended. Once registered, survivors are encouraged to wear their shirts proudly—not only on Relay day but throughout the year.
Relay for Life of Mercer County is more than a fundraiser. It is a symbol of hope and a show of strength, bringing the community together to honor those who have faced cancer, support those currently fighting, and remember those lost. The event is free to attend and open to the public. For updates, including weather plans or additions to the schedule, follow Relay for Life of Mercer County on Facebook.