Branstetter Park’s 98th Annual Music Festival & Homecoming is slated for Aug. 24 and 25 with festivities beginning at 10:00 a.m. both days. The almost 100 year old tradition of the homecoming started as a way for a group of families in the Beaumont community to return home and stay in touch once many moved to more urban areas for work.
The land which Branstetter Park is situated on was donated by John Branstetter, who always wanted friends and loved ones to have a play to gather.
“We are coming up on 100 years for the Homecoming, it is a longstanding tradition, and I think it’s really neat that a little place like this can keep something alive that long,” said committee member, Lori Butler. The event and the park is maintained by a small committee of community members, such as Butler. This year new concrete was poured for the tabernacle floor, and the ceiling fans were replaced. Aside from the festival, many families utilize the park for family reunions.
This year the music festival portion of the event Saturday will feature the Hornets Nest Pickers and an open mic hour. As always, shade tree pickers are welcome.
Shade tree pickers are an essential part of the long-cultivated atmosphere of the homecoming.
There will also be children’s games Saturday, including sack races,the three-legged race, tug of war and a hula hoop contest. There will be concessions available Saturday only.
Sunday begging at 10:00 a.m. there will be a devotional, a message from Bro. Mark Parks, and a singing by Long Creek Bluegrass Gospel. The Sunday Potluck tradition will also continue, and attendants are asked to bring a covered dish.
Beyond this year, Butler is excited to prepare for the 100th year celebration, only two summers away. To see photos of this year’s homecoming, see wcluradio.com
