Beginning in 1953, Putnam County recognized its local dairy farmers and their contributions to the community at the annual Putnam County Dairy Festival.
The Dairy Festival has always been held in June because it coincides with National Dairy Month. According to The Dairy Alliance, National Dairy Month has been observed each June since 1939. It is recognized and celebrated throughout the country in various ways, including fairs and festivals dedicated to honoring and celebrating the production of milk and milk products by dedicated dairy farmers.
At this year’s Putnam County Dairy Festival, a milk production display will be featured, with special recognition of youth involvement in the dairy industry's future. While the number of dairies in Putnam County has decreased over the years, dairy farming remains a primary industry. Local dairy farmers continue to work hard to provide safe and wholesome dairy foods. They are dedicated and take pride in caring for their cows.
The Pilot Club of Eatonton has announced that plans and preparations are well underway for the Dairy Festival 2025, to be held on Saturday, June 7, on and around the Courthouse Square lawn.
As tradition dictates, festival day will start with various foot races, this year sponsored by the Eatonton Service League with the Brer Terrapin Trot. There will be a 1-mile Fun Run, as well as 5K and 10K races.
Dairy Festival activities, hosted by the Pilot Club, will begin at 9 a.m. and feature arts, crafts, and food vendors. There will be various dairy exhibitors, a parade, special children’s activities, a platform program featuring local leaders who will be recognized for their involvement in the dairy industry, and an introduction to the Dairy Festival Queen and her court, before afternoon entertainment takes over.
Dairy Festival Day in Putnam County is an exciting time filled with fun and activities thanks to the efforts of many volunteers, workers, participants, vendors, and numerous sponsors.
Dairy Festival event T-shirts are currently available for sale at Farmers & Merchants Bank, Shoppers Pharmacy, and Eatonton Cooperative Feed Co.
In addition to the Dairy Festival activities scheduled for Saturday, there are several events planned for the weekend that attendees are also sure to enjoy.
For more information about Dairy Festival events, visit putnamcodairyfestival.com or e-mail questions to pilotclubofeatonton@ gmail.com.