Former Fire Chief, Dale Specken will lead the Grande Day Parade as the 2026 Grand Marshal. Dale followed in his father’s footsteps and became a fire fighter. He was in this position for 24 years before becoming the first full-time fire Chief, which he held for 20 years. Dale grew up in Hopkins and graduated from Hopkins and never felt the need to leave. He served on the Raspberry Festival Board for many years holding positions as president and executive director. Dale’s oldest daughter was even the 2000-2001 Hopkins Raspberry Festival Queen. He and his wife are active in the community and their church. They enjoy spending most of their time with their kids and grandkids. Dale is also a huge baseball fan and enjoys going to Twins games and Town ball games.
Dale said it is an honor to be named the 2026 Hopkins Grand Marshal, and he is looking forward to all the events that are held during the 92nd Hopkins Raspberry Festival.
