Submitted by Bill Woodard, Executive Director, Smith County Chamber of Commerce
Carthage, TN – Get ready to step back in time and celebrate the rich heritage of Carthage, Tennessee, at the upcoming 2023 William Walton Days Event on Saturday September 30th on the Historic Smith County Courthouse Square. This annual festival, deeply rooted in the community’s history, promises a day of fun, entertainment, and a profound connection to the past.
The event schedule is packed with exciting activities that will transport attendees to the pioneer days of Smith County. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:
8:00 am: The day begins with vendor setup as local businesses and artisans prepare to showcase their wares and talents.
9:00 am: Vendors open for business, offering a wide array of goods, crafts, and delectable treats for festival-goers to explore and enjoy.
10:30 am: The solemn Walton Gravesite Ceremony, (At the Walton Gravesite located on Myer Street which is the driveway before Sonic on the right) presented by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), pays homage to the festival’s namesake, William Walton.
10:45 am: Boy Scouts Cub pack will perform flag raising ceremony.
11:00 am: Mayor Mason officially opens the festival, setting the stage for a day of celebration.
11:15 am: Don’t miss the DAR presentation that will provide valuable insights on William Walton the man who inspired this remarkable event.
11:45 am: The festival continues with live music by the band Sycamore, led by the talented Austin Kannapel and Kie Blackburn.
12:30 pm: Amanda Crawford takes the stage, adding her unique musical flair to the festivities.
1:00 pm: The Smith County High School Theater Group presents a captivating historic reenactment, bringing the past to life through their talent and dedication. Led by Mr. J.R. Smith
1:30 pm: The delightful Callie Drennan enchants the audience with her musical performance.
2:00 pm: Get ready for a delightful surprise as the Ukulelers from The Spot showcase their musical prowess, adding a touch of whimsy to the event, led by Mr. Don Kannapel.
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm: Join in the fun at the Sigma Phi Cakewalk, a beloved tradition that promises sweet treats and good times for all. They will have a booth where you can buy confections all day.
3:45 pm: Experience history coming alive with a historical reenactment featuring Tilman Dixon as John Oliver, offering a unique perspective on the region’s past.
4:00 pm: The highlight of the day, the Harvest Queen Pageant, takes the stage. Once again, Mrs. Jeri Lynn Vaden Malone brings together a wonderful group of contestants from our local area to compete for the honor of Harvest Queen. This prestigious event is made even more special with musical stylings by Don Kannapel.
6:00 pm: FREE Concert featuring Tennessee Outlaw Country, an electrifying Southern Rock/Outlaw Country band from Smith County TN.
The 2023 William Walton Days Event promises to be a day filled with entertainment, education, and community spirit. As you explore the historic courthouse square in Carthage, you’ll witness demonstrations, exhibits, and reenactments that provide a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the early settlers who shaped this region.
From savoring delicious food and exploring unique shopping opportunities to enjoying thrilling rides and live performances, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Rackley Roofing will once again bring back the ever-popular Zip Line to the main street. Zero Gravity will be in the street with their reverse bungee jump. The City of Carthage and The Carthage Baptist Church will both have inflatables for the kids.
William Walton Harvest Festival – a brief history
William Walton Harvest Festival traces its origins back to the Fall Heritage Festival, an inspired creation of Dan and Mayor Sabra Hodge in the mid-1990s, a festival that thrived until 2003. The Fall Heritage Festival was designed to offer our local residents a captivating glimpse of our past, featuring immersive displays, historical reenactments, and an array of vendors and craft booths. From 2004 to 2011, The Rendezvous on the Square festival graced our streets as a lively local street fair, boasting captivating crafting exhibits, sensational entertainment, and a diverse selection of delectable food booths. William Walton Harvest Festival emerged as an evolution that artfully combines the essence of these two preceding festivals. Through its evolution, one unwavering mission has endured: to invigorate our local merchants and present our cultural heritage and our local history to our residents each year.
Watch for next weeks article on Captain William Walton and some of our local history.
We would like to extend our gratitude and thank our Sponsors: Nyrstar, DTC Communications, Citizens Bank, Smith County Bank, Riverview Regional Hospital, The Carthage Pavilion, and Wilson Bank & Trust, for their support of this community festival.
If you would like more information on the William Walton Harvest Festival please contact the Smith County Chamber of Commerce or visit our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/williamwaltonharvestfestival.
