2026 Parade Marshals

Meet the Marshals! Lee Binkley and Randy Ninmer served together as parade volunteers for many years, often getting the marching bands organized to go into the lineup. Through the years they smoothed things over with cantankerous band directors, handled spooked horses, and dealt with politicians who showed up late and wanted to leave early. This year should be smooth sailing for this longtime pair of friends who will be honored as marshals in The Swiss Colony Cheese Days Parade on Sunday, September 20, 2026.

CHEESE DAYS

Back in 1914, the concept of Cheese Days originated from the notion that if some little town in Illinois could have a festival commemorating sauerkraut, then a celebration based on cheese would be an even better idea.

A group of local businessmen planned the festivities in just nine days, driving a roadster through the city of Monroe to publicize the event. A hand-lettered sign attached to the vehicle proclaimed “FIRST CHEESE DAY COMMITTEE 1914 – WE STARTED SOMETHING!”

And did they ever.

100 years later, we invite you to take part in our centennial Cheese Days 2014 – where old-world tradition has generated an out-of-this-world celebration.

Help us celebrate our Swiss heritage with traditional music, dance, drinks, food, and extraordinary cheese!