The Pickle and Wiener Fest returns this fall to raise funds for Special Olympics athletes in Northern Kentucky. Guests can enjoy free pickles and hot dogs, plus fun and live music all in support of the programs and activities of Special Olympics Kentucky, Region 7. Founded in 2012 by former Kentucky State Senator John Schickel, the event will be held on Saturday, September 27, from noon to 5 p.m. at Erlanger Lions Park, 5996 Belair Park Drive, Florence, Kentucky.
A new addition this year is a Pickleball Tournament, set for Tuesday, September 23, at Sports of All Sorts in Florence, KY. Sports of All Sorts has generously donated the court time, with all proceeds benefiting Special Olympics of Northern Kentucky. The tournament is limited to the first 18 men and 18 women who register. Entry is $30 per player.
“Special Olympics of Northern Kentucky is powered entirely by volunteers and their fundraising efforts,” stated Senator Schickel. “Every dollar raised goes directly back into providing year-round training, competitions and life-changing opportunities for our athletes. Special Olympics of Northern Kentucky receives no government funding. That’s why events like the Pickleball Tournament and the Pickle and Wiener Fest are so important. Whether you donate to the silent auction, purchase a raffle ticket or become a sponsor, your support directly impacts the lives of Special Olympians in our community.”
Highlights of the Pickle and Wiener Fest include music by the Lazy River Band, mingling with several United States Senate candidates and a bourbon tasting by New Riff Distillery alongside the event’s signature drink the Schickel’s Bourbon Pickleback.
The festivities will also feature a silent auction, Split the Pot, and raffles, including $500 in gasoline donated by Shell Oil’s Greg Schrand and $1,200 in restaurant gift cards.
Event Details
Pickle and Wiener Fest
• When: Saturday, September 27, 2025, Noon – 5 P.M.
• Where: Erlanger Lions Park, 5996 Belair Dr, Florence, KY 41042
• Cost: Free admission, pickles and hot dogs; Prices vary for drinks, raffle tickets and silent auction items.
• Held rain or shine.
• Sponsors include Seligman/Budweiser, Duke Energy, Marathon Oil, Greg Schrand/Shell Station. To sponsor or donate to the event contact John Schickel, 859-628-5150.
Pickleball Tournament
• When: Tuesday, September 23, 2025. 8:30 am warm-ups; 9 am play begins
• Where: Sports of All Sorts, Florence, KY
• Details: Open to first 18 men and 18 women who register and pay the $30 fee. Round Robin format playing eight games. Players have a different partner each game chosen by random draw.
• To register: Call or text 859-512-1705.
Special Olympics of Northern Kentucky is an all-volunteer organization offering sports and athletic training to individuals aged 8 and up with cognitive and related developmental disabilities. SONKY offers year-round events and activities.
