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The annual tradition, organized by the Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce, celebrates Gorilla pride leading up to Pittsburg State University’s first home football game of the season.
This year’s theme is “Gus Through the Decades,” inspired by this year’s Pittsburg 150 celebration.
Businesses, schools, and community members will showcase creative displays combining Pitt State spirit with Gus-themed décor and will compete for bragging rights.
Again this year, content about the week will be available through the free Connect! Pittsburg Area app. Those who download it can access community favorite voting, a list of vendors, and the schedule for the week.
PTTR has been recognized by the NCAA as a model community engagement event among Division II universities.
“The support Paint the Town Red receives from our community each year is incredible,” said Blake Benson, president of the Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a tradition that highlights our pride in Pittsburg State and brings the entire community together.”
Aug. 24-Aug. 25
Area businesses and the campus will be decorated in crimson and gold.
Aug. 26
9 a.m. – noon: Judging begins for the business and campus decorating contests.
Noon: Evergy Community Favorite voting opens at pittsburgareachamber.com/pttr.
Noon: Business decorating contest winners announced live on KSN’s noon news
6 to 8 p.m.: PTTR Block Party and Pep Rally at 4th and Broadway. Enjoy live music, games, and food.
6:30 p.m.: Pride of the Plains Marching Band, Pitt State Dance and Cheer teams, Pitt State Athletics, and the Alumni Association.
7:00 p.m.: Remarks from coaches and the announcement of the campus decorating content winners.
Aug. 27
8 a.m.: Chamber Coffee hosted by the PSU Alumni & Constituent Relations Office, officially wrapping up PPTR before the first home game.
11 a.m.: Community Favorite voting closes.
7 p.m.: First home football game: Pitt State vs. Ferris State at Carnie Smith Stadium. On-field trophy presentation for PTTR business decorating contest winners.
Official Paint the Town Red t-shirts, designed by Pitt State graduate Annabella Beachner, are now available at the Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce. Sizes S–XL are $15, and XL–4X are $18. Shirts can also be purchased online at pittsburgareachamber.com/pttr.
For the full schedule of events, to purchase t-shirts, and to cast your vote for the Evergy Community Favorite, visit pittsburgareachamber.com/pttr
