Alton, Mo. – Alton, Missouri is home of the annual Ozark “Black Gold” Walnut Festival. This is the 36th one and a crowd is showing up for the fun. Despite a cancellation last year and dreary weather in the forecast, vendors and shoppers are showing up today.
Kickoff
The morning began with vendors arriving early to set up their booths. At 9:00 a.m., the Alton Boy Scouts’ color guard made an entrance. They led everyone present in the pledge of allegiance and the national anthem.
What’s Happening
Vendors have booths set up circling the courthouse. Pumpkin carving by children is scheduled for this morning. Several booths also have games for children, while youth activities are planned for early afternoon.
The school choirs performed in the morning with special presentations by the Alton drama club. A few churches have booths selling items along with the final participation of the year for the farmer’s market.
Quilt Turning
In the Alton Community Worship Center, Dinah Slaughter led an audience in a quilt turning. Beautiful hand-made quilts which have been in families for generations are on display. This is also a Walnut Festival tradition.
Weather
Although the rain is in the forecast, no precipitation has fallen at the Walnut Festival as of noon. So come on out, bring the family, and relax with special food treats.
