64th Annual Hootin’ an Hollarin’ Festival in Gainesville
This September 18-20, the town of Gainesville will host their 64th annual Hootin’ an Hollarin’ Festival! This long-running free event attracts locals and visitors alike for a fun-filled experience featuring contests, artisan vendors, live music, and delicious food!
Hours:
- Thursday 5:30pm-midnight
- Friday & Saturday 9am-midnight
Vendors and Entertainment:
- Loblolly Soap Company
- Wolf’s Broom Shop Featuring Live Broom Making Demos
- Bread Demonstration by Carol Lathan
- Woodworking by Thompson Custom Creations
- Car Show
- Live Performance from Joshua Michael and Dirt Road Saints
- Parade
- Bed and Outhouse Races
- Pageants
- Terrapin Race
- Pet Show
- Quilt Show
- Gun and Archery Shoot
- Pie Contest
- Square Dancing
- Corn Hole Tournament
A Sampling of Foods:
- Handcrafted Soda
- Ice Cream Floats
- Tea
- Baked Goods from Small Town Treats
- Food from Festival Favorite Big O’ Fish
- And More!
Highlighted Amenities:
- Parking Space Available off the Square
- On-Leash Pets Welcome
Helpful Tips!
It may be a good idea to bring a stroller for the comfort and safety of younger children. Some vendors may be cash only, so plan accordingly. This year’s terrapin races take place on September 19th and 20th on the SW corner of the Gainesville Square at 10:30am. Reptiles and coaches should check in 30 minutes before the opening heat begins. Top winners of each heat will advance to the championship round where they will compete for a cash prize! The Pie Contest is on the 20th at the Shelter Insurance office on the SW corner of the Gainesville square. Local bakers are encouraged to enter and the top 3 will be chosen and a Grand Champion named! The prize is a Blue Rose Pottery pie dish as well as a custom trophy. Pies can be dropped off starting at 10am until 11:15am on the day of the contest. The festival is also looking for contestants for the Princess and Queen Pageants! For details on how to enter, check out the event’s Facebook page.