National Cornbread Festival 2024 Happening April 27-28

The National Cornbread Festival, one of Marion County’s most beloved events, will return April 27-28! In its 27th year, the festival will feature a National Lodge Cast Iron cornbread cook-off, cornbread tastings in Cornbread Alley, live music throughout the festival, arts and crafts from area vendors, and more. 

There will be entertainment for everyone to enjoy with a 5k run, Sunday pancake breakfast, and even a cornbread fondo (cycling event). The festival is Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

According to the event website, it is recommended for festival goers to arrive early. The gates open at 8 a.m., and arriving ahead of the peak hours of 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. can help attendees avoid traffic. To get to the recommended parking area, navigate to 1st and 12th street. 

To avoid the line, consider purchasing two-day passes or single-day tickets online. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate, and preschool age and under have free admission to the festival. 

The National Cornbread Festival began in 1996 by a group of civic-minded local leaders and citizens who wanted to promote civic engagement and help local businesses by organizing a food-oriented festival. Now, over 350 community volunteers and more than 15 committees help plan and execute the festival, which thousands of people attend. 

To learn more about the festival’s schedule, events, and parking, visit nationalcornbread.com.