For a small town, Colon packs quite a wallop when it comes to making people feel comfortable and welcome. And why not? They have over 70 years experience with Magic Get Togethers! This page tries to capture a little of that spirit in both the people of Colon and their guest's, whether its the barmaid at the American Legion who gave my son a donut "for the road" (and a good donut, a custard one with chocolate on top), or its the lady at the bait shop who gave us directions (and also happens to be the Mayor of Colon), your efforts and kindness are very appreciated by your guests.
Mayor Doenges & Colon Welcome You
The Magic Atmosphere
A trip down some of the streets of Colon during "The 2007 Getogether" was like a trip to a carnival. Small booths set up along the side of road and near the high school created a wonderful carnival atmosphere. Most booths sold used magic, some sold t-shirts, and of course there is the "What Is It" booth which is, well, I guess it's kinda, you know, a booth PT Barnum would be proud of!
Staying Cool at the Beach
It got a little hot during the day at the 2007 Get Together, fortunately there are many great ways to cool off. Harry Blackstone Sr. fell in love with the natural beauty of Colon and for the most part that beauty is still here, in the form of two magnificent lakes, Lake Palmer and Lake Sturgeon. Magicians can launch their boats, rent a boat (get them early), rent a cabin, go fishing, or just go for a swim on the public beach!
Relax With A Cold One
Whether its beer, pop, or water, two really good places to relax with a cold beverage are the American Legion and Curly's. Both establishments offer great food and snacks as well. The American Legion wants you to know that during Magic Week they have a special license so they can serve the general public (in plain language, you don't have to be a member of the American Legion during magic week to visit their establishment).
Vent O Rama
This years Vent O Rama was hosted by George Schindler,George holds the prestigious lifetime title "Dean of American Magicians" conferred on him in July 2005 by the Society of American Magicians. Some of you may remember him in the role of Chandu The Great in Woody Allen's "New York Stories". For more about George, why not check his webpage Show Biz Magic.
Arts & Craft's Show
Friday and Saturday was the Arts and Craft's show put on by the Colon Friends of the Library. Many great bargains could be found here ranging from towels and cabinets to Christmas Tree's and Pumpkins. The face painting booth seemed to be constantly busy and the concession food were great. It was almost like being at a mini state fair!!
Like the magic flea market, the dealers room is held in the Colon Elementary School. Expect to see some of the top names in magic in here, demonstrating their latest feats to amaze. You will find everything from confetti cannons to floating cell phones as you browse the dealers displays. Everything you don't need but can't live without will be on display here. During the Get Together the dealers room is open from 10 am til 5 pm. It re-opens around 10:30 pm (after the evening shows) which is also the time Abbotts has its auction and award ceremonies for that particular year.
More and more magicians are traveling with their families these days, turning their trip to Colon into a mini-vacation. If you have your family with you at the Get Together, please don't forget the wonderful park across the street from the elementary school. It's perfect for picnics with tables, benches, and a huge playground area for the kids. The magicians in the family can shop the dealers room while the rest of family enjoys the many unique activities in the park.
Evening Shows
Short Video from Fri/Sat Shows
Pics from Fridays Show A few pictures by the webmaster from Fridays show
Even More Pictures These pictures are from Abbott's official photographer David Linsell