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Lodge News

Cornbread Festival 20th Anniversary

By: Lodge Cast Iron / April 1, 2016

Every year, at the end of April, our tiny hometown hosts the National Cornbread Festival, a weekend of fun, fellowship, and food! This year, we are proud to celebrate its 20th Anniversary!

A group of smiling women stand next to hay bales with a "National Cornbread Festival" sign.

The National Cornbread Festival began as a simple idea. In 1996, a group of civic-minded local leaders and citizens got together to talk about the long-term future of South Pittsburg, TN. The question: how do we promote civic engagement and help local businesses? 

It seemed natural to feature Lodge Manufacturing, the local maker of world-class cast iron cookware. South Pittsburg’s citizens wanted to find a way to feature Lodge and include tours of the foundry. A food-oriented festival was the winning idea. The South Pittsburg community united to support the cause. Individuals volunteered, businesses and organizations joined in, and the first annual festival was a success. 

Since the Festival began all of the proceeds have helped to: 

  • Landscape streets 
  • Build and support athletic facilities and grounds 
  • Support local boy scout troops, schools, and daycares 
  • Donate to local theaters, churches, and libraries 

Now, thousands of people come to South Pittsburg to see the sights, hear the music, feel the history and get their fill of cornbread. 

Come see what’s cooking at the Cornbread Festival! Visit www.nationalcornbread.com for more info.

handprints on a column in the foundry with the words, "Thanks for letting us tour the place!"
a group of people gather at the National Cornbread Festival in South Pittsburg, Tennessee.

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