The 60th anniversary of the Million Penny Parade will be held in Woodruff on Saturday, May 25. It will be held in conjunction with the 125th birthday of the town of Woodruff. The festivities will include a parade, arts and crafts show, petting zoo, live auction, musical entertainment, car show, games, bungee jumping and more.

The original Penny Parade was held on Memorial Day in 1953 after 17 students from Arbor Vitae-Woodruff High School collected one million pennies to donate to the hospital fund drive. The students collected pennies from 48 states and 26 countries across the world.

The hospital fund drive was inspired by Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb, who practiced medicine in the Northwoods from 1931 to 1954. She treated a multitude of people in the area and became a legend for her dedication to saving lives. The Dr. Kate Museum is located in Woodruff and is in charge of organizing the festival. Those who would like to become involved in the event may call (715) 356-5562 or visit drkatemuseum.org.