Discover five food festivals in Tennessee that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the South, including the iconic RC Cola Moon Pie Festival and the quirky Tomato Art Fest.
Experience the Quirkiness of Tennessee's Food Festivals
If you're a food lover who enjoys exploring different cuisines and experiencing unique festivals, Tennessee has got you covered. With a variety of food festivals throughout the year, the state celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the South. From the iconic RC Cola Moon Pie Festival to the quirky Tomato Art Fest, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Let's take a closer look at five food festivals in Tennessee that you should add to your calendar this year.
1. RC Cola Moon Pie Festival: A Wacky and Fun-filled Day
Date: Saturday, June 15
Location: Downtown Bell Buckle, TN
Get ready for a wacky and fun-filled day at the RC Cola Moon Pie Festival in Bell Buckle. This festival pays homage to the South's original fast food – RC Cola and MoonPies. People from all over the world flock to this event to enjoy live music, cloggers, unique contests, MoonPie games, and a vibrant parade. It's an event that the whole family can enjoy!
2. Sundrop Festival: Celebrating a Southern Soda
Date: Saturday, June 8
Location: Downtown Pulaski
Pulaski, the birthplace of Sundrop Bottling, hosts the Sundrop Festival in downtown Pulaski. This festival celebrates the famous Southern soda, Sundrop, which gained popularity through renowned race car driver Dale Earnhardt and others. The festival offers a range of activities for all ages, including music, food, and vendors. Don't miss the nostalgic milk drop and the SunDrop cake contest, which add a unique touch to the festivities.
3. Banana Pudding Festival: A Dessert Lover's Paradise
Date: Saturday – Sunday, October 4-5
Location: Riverpark, Centerville, TN
The National Banana Pudding Festival, held at RiverPark in Centerville, is a must-visit for dessert enthusiasts. This festival began in 2010 with the goal of supporting local non-profits. Over the years, it has grown into a beloved event that attracts thousands of visitors. Enjoy live music, participate in the national cook-off, and explore the Puddin' Path, where you can sample various versions of this classic Southern dessert.
4. Middle Tennessee Strawberry Festival: A Sweet Celebration
Date: Saturday, May 10-11
Location: Downtown Portland
For over 80 years, the Middle Tennessee Strawberry Festival has been a highlight in Portland. This festival celebrates the sweet and juicy strawberry, attracting 30,000 guests each year. Indulge in fresh strawberries, enjoy live music, witness the vibrant parade, and browse through a variety of vendors. It's a delightful event that captures the essence of this beloved fruit.
5. Tomato Fest: A Tomato-Themed Extravaganza
Date: August 9-10
Location: Five Points, Woodland Street, Nashville
Get ready for a tomato-themed extravaganza at the Tomato Art Fest in East Nashville. This festival has been entertaining locals and tourists alike for almost 20 years. Celebrate a wacky day of art, music, food, and costumes. With its free admission and recognition by travel magazines as a must-attend festival, the Tomato Art Fest promises a unique and memorable experience.
Immerse Yourself in Tennessee's Vibrant Food Culture
These five food festivals in Tennessee offer a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant food culture of the South. Whether you're a fan of MoonPies, Sundrop, banana pudding, strawberries, or tomatoes, these festivals have something for everyone. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and embark on a culinary adventure in the heart of Tennessee.