59th annual Black Walnut Festival

From 59th annual Black Walnut Festival Website:

The festival originated in the 1930s & was known as The Fiesta. The Fiesta was a celebration used to raise funds to maintain the local cemetery. Locals provided items such as eggs, produce, fresh and canned vegetables, honey, sorghum, and any other items to be sold at the Country Store. There was only one food stand and all food items were prepared by members of the community. Bingo was a popular event at The Fiesta and drew a large crowd, but due to a change in legislation, bingo was prohibited and attendance and profits began to decline.

When the Black Walnut Festival was first established, it consisted of just a few produce booths. Today, it has grown to over 130 crafts and produce booths, 15 bands, an amazing parade, numerous area schools participating

in the annual Queen Contest, a carnival, kiddie tractor pull and much more. We have thousands of dollars in sponsorship, thousands of dollars in in-kind donations, and a great group of people dedicated to the continued success and growth the festival brings to our community. We welcome you to the community of Stockton, Missouri, and hope you enjoy your time at the Black Walnut Festival.