Tennessee boasts a fun community of sweet southern folks from one side of the state to the next, and one of the best ways to get folks together and happy is to give them one thing: food. There’s something so communal about eating, something so primal that it ignites that age old and natural drive for community. These seven little known food festivals may not make the front page, but they sure to help us invest in a whole lot of good memories.
7. Eat The Street - Franklin
Eat the Street has returned every year since 2012, and you can visit for yourself on May 4th in the nearby town of Franklin, Tennessee. It's a Williamson County festival that hosts over thirty food trucks for hordes of excited locals and tourists, and is held at the city's Bicentennial Park. You can visit from 5 to 10pm, and know that families and dogs are welcome. Bring a folding chair or a blanket, too! It's a picnic for all, and admission is free.
6. Nashville Chili Festival - Nashville
The Nashville Chili Festival is held annually as a fundraised for local nonprofit Community Shares, and offers up an afternoon full of great food, live music and a whole lot of beer. Although it won't be held in 2018, you should definitely make sure to tune in for 2019 dates. This is a fun one that shouldn't be missed!
5. Music City Hot Chicken Festival - Nashville
Held every July 4th, the Music City Hot Chicken Festival is family-friendly and offers free admission. You can eat to your hearts content from all sorts of vendors and food trucks scattered throughout Nashville's East Park. This is the 12th year running, so you know everyone is ready and raring to host.
4. Southern Artisan Cheese Festival - Nashville
The Southern Artisan Cheese Festival is traditionally hosted in Nashville, and has set up shop in venues such as Rocketown in downtown Nashville. It's been organized by folks such as Kathleen Cotter of The Bloomy Rind, and is a fun experience for cheese lovers and mongers alike. Although there's no date for 2018 just yet, we'll be keep an eye out. Check back for updates!
3. Music City Food + Wine Festival - Nashville
This three-day, downtown Nashville eating extravaganza requires a ticket but is well worth the $$$. You can indulge in all sorts of delicious food, wine and cocktails throughout the festival, while regaled with live music and good company. This year, you can plan on September 14th through the 16th.
2. Jack Daniel's World Championship Barbecue Invitational - Lynchburg
The renowned Lynchburg barbecue invitational will be back for its 30th year this fall, where barbecue enthusiasts from all over the state and world come to enjoy good ol' competition and delicious meals. Last year, Rocky Top Barbecue took home the $10,000 grand prize and solid bragging rights for winning what is one of the most prestigious barbecue contests on the globe.
1. RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival - Bell Buckle
Head to the tiny town of Bell Buckle on Saturday, June 16th for the RC Cola & Moon Pie Festival. It's held annually on the third Saturday in June, and you can enjoy all sorts of icy cola and MoonPie flavors in the heart of a Tennessee summer. Its a true snack lovers paradise, and free for the whole family.
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