The annual Big Otter Mill Spring Festival will be held on Saturday, May 4, 11 a.m. — 3 p.m. The day will include BBQ by the 24th District Mason’s Association, live music by Karlee Raye, vendors, a silent auction featuring Bedford items, and the Mill will be open for tours. This is a family-friendly event, and dogs are welcome on a leash.
New this year is a hat contest. Since the event is held on the same day as the Kentucky Derby, there will be a fun hat contest, so wear your best, funniest, or favorite hat! There is a $5 donation to participate in the contest, and voting will take place 11 a.m. — 2:30 p.m. Winner will be announced at 3 p.m. All participants will be photographed, and voting will take place for $1/vote. More information about the contest can be found on the Big Otter Mill Facebook page.
Confirmed vendors include Saw Ridge with live chainsaw woodworking demonstrations, Lots of Knots, CJ’s Clay & Thangs, Upcycled Hippie Chick, Piney Creek Creations, Paula Dean Mason — Mary Kay, Cowpoke Confections, Liberty High School FFA, Johnson Health Center, Ted’s Woodcrafts and Designs, Scentsy, and Graham Ordinary Meadery.
The purpose of the annual spring and fall festival events are to bring awareness to this historic landmark, provide a gathering place for the community, and raise funds for its preservation. All proceeds from the food, silent auction, and hat contest will benefit the Mill.
Admission to the spring festival is free. Event sponsors include Master Engineers & Designers, Destination Bedford, and the 24th District Mason’s Association. Please bring cash for food and vendor purchases, and also for the hat contest!
For more information on ways to get involved with the Mill, or how to support the preservation effort, email info@bigottermill.com. You can also visit the website at www.bigottermill.com and follow on Facebook @BigOtterMill.
