Travel Itinerary
Talk about a festival that’s worth its weight in beans! Each fall, Martin, Tennessee bubbles over with flavor, fun, and festivity during the Soybean Festival.
With live music, savory food, and laughter around every corner, it’s a community gathering that’s anything but half-baked.
1. Star-Studded Concert Lineup
Music lovers rejoice! The WK&T Amphitheater rocked with incredible performances from The Band Perry, TLC, and Tone-Loc. Free downtown listening meant everyone could enjoy the beats.
Even local talents like Bizz & Everyday People and Cornerstone drew hundreds to blanket-seating on the lawn. Where else could you catch Grammy-winning artists without spending a dime?
2. Mouthwatering Food Extravaganza
Hungry foodies found paradise at Soybean Street Fair where more than 60 vendors dished out everything from smoky BBQ sending hickory aromas into the air to crispy loaded fries crackling fresh from the fryer. Legendary community BBQ contests crowned local grill masters, their sizzling creations drawing cheering crowds.
Sweet treats lured every passerby with sugary scents, while inventive soybean-inspired bites turned the humble bean into a star worth celebrating.
Who could possibly taste all that flavor in a single visit without bursting at the seams?
3. Family-Friendly Inflatable Park
When the contracted midway canceled, quick-thinking organizers rolled out an incredible Inflatable Park where kids bounced, slid, and laughed through a wonderland of air-filled fun.
Parents welcomed a safe alternative to traditional carnival rides, and surprise hit soon became a centerpiece of the festival. Squeaks of rubber mixed with popcorn scents in the breeze, proving that Plan B can sometimes blow up bigger than Plan A – in the best possible way.
4. Vibrant Downtown Parade
Kicking off the festivities, the evening parade transformed University and Lindell Streets into a magical procession of floats, bands, and community spirit. Locals lined the sidewalks, cheering as hometown heroes waved from decorated vehicles.
Children scrambled for tossed candy while marching bands filled the air with peppy tunes. What better way to launch a week of celebration than this small-town tradition?
5. Bustling Soybean Street Fair
The heart of the festival beat strongest at the three-day Street Fair! Artisans displayed handcrafted treasures while entrepreneurs showcased unique wares from Thursday through Saturday.
Flexible hours accommodated both early birds and night owls. Thousands wandered between booths, discovering one-of-a-kind items and connecting with makers. How many festivals can boast such a perfect blend of shopping, socializing, and celebrating local culture?