Hours of Operation

Cannonball Day is filled from morning 'til night with fun activities for families and children of all ages who love to be around trains!  From the early morning Cannonball Kids Fun Run, the Kids Business Fair, inflatable playgrounds, and the great River City Morning Kiwanis famous BBQ, Chicken Dinner, there is something for everyone!  Don't miss the great talent of our youth at the Bill Riley Talent Search. Look for more info under the EVENTS menu.

All proceeds from the day's event, and donations from the Kiwanis BBQ Chicken Dinner and other sponsors, go to help support the work of restoration, preservation, and maintenance for the education and fun of the public. 

Follow us on our Facebook page for events planned for the public. 

The Bill Riley Talent Search has been a featured event annually at Cannonball Day. It has been our pleasure to have Bill Riley Jr attend many of our events, and we hope he can visit again in 2025. Winners from our Cannonball Day event will go on to compete at the Iowa State Fair.  Each of our competitors receive a ribbon, and top winners get CASH PRIZES to help further their talent.  If you are age 2-21, and whatever your talent, there is a division for you to compete in.  More info is included on the entry/registration form. Entry forms are also generally available from Mason City schools and private music instructors.  

* Toddler Trot (2- 5 years)

* Ages 5-13 years: Pick your own distance

          ½ mile – ¾ mile – 1 Mile

* Pickup runner packets at 9 a.m. Warm up exercise begins at 9:15 a.m.

All pre-registered participants who cross the Finish Line are assured of receiving a YMCA Day Pass and a unique Winners Medal designed by the Friends of the 457 that is provided by Hy-Vee Stores in Mason City. Free water and healthy snacks are offered to the runners at the end of the courses. Entrants receive a free ticket to one of the Super Inflatable activities at Cannonball Day that begin immediately after the Runs are completed, at approximately 10:30 a.m.

Pre-registration is encouraged so that each runner age 2 and above will have a T-shirt available to them, however, last minute entries will be accepted for running. 

The  Cannonball Kids Fun Run pre-registration Entry Form is downloadable.  Print it out, complete, and mail in ASAP to the address on the form, or bring to the YMCA by registration deadline.

This event supports our community commitment to healthy lifestyle by encouraging active recreation and group involvement.  The Kids Fun Run is jointly organized by the Friends of the 457 and the Mason City YMCA, and sponsored by local supporters.  

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