photo by: Journal-World File Photo

The Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2120 Harper St.

Visitors are invited to learn more about the history of the Douglas County Fairgrounds and tour its gardens and arboretum at a free event next month.

The county’s K-State Extension office and LiveWell Douglas County will host “Past, Plants and Pathways” on Oct. 11 at the fairgrounds, 2120 Harper St. A news release from Extension said the event will begin with a historical talk on Judge Hugh Means and his role in the fairgrounds’ history at 9 a.m. Then, at 9:30 a.m., there will be a tour of the fairgrounds’ arboretum and gardens. There will also be a guided walk in honor of breast cancer awareness at 10 a.m.

The event will also include information on programming from Douglas County Extension and activities from Safe Kids Douglas County and LiveWell Douglas County.

“Spending more time outside, and connecting with nature, helps increase physical activity and improve mental health,” Ginny Barnard, executive director of LiveWell Douglas County, said in the release. “The Fairgrounds is a great place to do both while exploring the gardens and arboretum.”

Sharon Ashworth, Douglas County horticulture and natural resources agent, said the event was meant to showcase the role of the fairgrounds beyond just the Douglas County Fair.

“The Fairgrounds are not just for the County Fair, they are a destination for recreation, relaxation, and community all year long,” Ashworth said in the release.

For questions regarding the event, people can contact Ashworth at sashworth@ksu.edu. People can also visit Extension’s website for updates.