Former State. Sen John Schickel’s annual “Pickles and Wieners Feast” is set to return later this month.
Schickel, who represented northern Boone County in the Kentucky Senate from 2009 to 2025, hosts an annual dinner fundraiser centered on selling homemade pickles and hot dogs.
The event began as a fundraiser for Schickel’s political campaigns before evolving into a benefit for Special Olympics Northern Kentucky in 2024. Last year, the event raised $58,000 for Special Olympics Northern Kentucky
“This event is supposed to be simple: Come as you are, bring your family, eat a pickle and a hot dog, listen to some good music and help some wonderful athletes,” Schickel said in a news release. “People showed up in a big way last year. We raised $58,000, and I want to see if Northern Kentucky can top that this year.”
The free event will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 26, at Erlanger Lions Park in Florence. There will be food, a silent auction, two raffles and live music from the Lazy River Band. A New Riff bourbon tasting will also be available for attendees 21 and older.
Event organizers are currently seeking sponsors and select items for the silent auction. Those interested in contributing can contact Schickel at (859) 628-5150.
In addition, raffle tickets are available in advance from participating Special Olympics athletes and coaches and will also be sold at the event. For raffle information, contact Special Olympics of Northern Kentucky Program Director Mark Staggs at staggsm@fuse.net or (859) 835-7171.
