Here in Tennessee, we love our food. There's simply no denying it. And who wouldn't love a bunch of fried chicken, grits, biscuits, pecan pie, cornbread, and every other delicious Southern delicacy that Tennesseans have spent centuries mastering?? There are so many foods that Tennessee does well, and as it turns out, there's practically a festival for every one of them. From soybeans to hot chicken, these seven Tennessee food festivals are ones that you surely don't want to miss.
7. Tennessee Soybean Festival - Martin
The Tennessee Soybean Festival is the farthest out of all of our food festivals, hosted every year by the University of Tennessee at Martin. It's a fair full of food, live music, and rides. The 2018 edition marks the festival's 25th year, and it will take place the first 10 days of September.
6. West Tennessee Strawberry Festival - Humboldt
Held every year in Humboldt, the West Tennessee Strawberry Festival has been drawing in folks from around the world for over 80 years. Main events include concerts, pageants, fireworks, and lots and lots of strawberries. The 2018 edition is May 6th through the 12th.
5. National Cornbread Festival - South Pittsburgh
The National Cornbread Festival (that's right -- National) is held every last weekend of April. It's everything you'd expect from the name cornbread cookoffs, corn-themed everything, and live music all weekend.
4. RC Cola & Moon Pie Festival - Bell Buckle
This year, the famed Tennessee RC Cola & Moon Pie Festival will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2018. Come enjoy a parade, good food, booths hosted by Tennessee businesses and artists and the kindness of the locals. There's even a, "folks who traveled the furthest" contest to honor those who trekked across state (or country!) lines to experience the festival.
3. Memphis in May International Festival - Memphis
Memphis in May International Festival takes place the entire month of May, but you'll want to check the calendar of events to make sure you pitch up for the ones you want! The festival will salute the Czech Republic this year, though the foreign country honored changes on an annual basis.
2. Grainger County Tomato Festival - Rutledge
The Grainger County Tomato Festival has been around since 1992, and its all to give a little love to the famous Grainger County Tomatoes. It takes place every July and showcases all sorts of local artists and talent.
1. Music City Hot Chicken Festival - Nashville
The Music City Hot Chicken Festival has been swingin' since 2007, and it's one of the best ways to enjoy the experience of our city's prime foodie moniker. The event is free every year, held in East Park in East Nashville during the Fourth of July.
If you're looking for something a little more traditional, check out this new restaurant in Tennessee that's truly one of a kind.
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