Rain doesn’t deter WELSHFest fun
Undeterred by rain, locals and tourists alike took t o Rockmart’s downtown for the annual WELSHFest that highlighted Welsh culture and heritage with a slew of arts, crafts, food, and contests. Live music set the backdrop for the festivities, and patrons were invited to shop with the vendors and local stores during their stay.
A highlight of the event proved to be the Bonnie Knees contest. Donning kilts, those who take pride in the quality of their legs were pitted against each other to decide who’s knees were truly the greatest. A blindfolded judge caressed each contestant’s knees until finally declaring Kirk Blackmon the winner.
Blackmon received a trophy and $ 100 to do- nate to the charity of his choice, and the money was pledged to the National Canine Cancer Foundation.
Hayley McKay Blackmon II, a Scottish Terrier mascot for the organization Hayley’s Helpers, joined Blackmon during the event with a kilt of her own.
“She’s helped raise millions for charity,” Blackmon said of his dog. “When she raised more than Uga at UGA, I knew she was a superstar.”
The vendors varied incredibly. The likes of gourmet popcorn were sold across from a book signing with author Mike Ragland, and the Rockmart Cultural Arts Center had a booth across from a vendor selling potato- made jewelry. Even those selling food, like Shonna Kirkpatrick with the Rockmart Farmers Market, found themselves unwilling to pack up for the day
“We’re farmers,” Kirkpatrick said. “We’re used to this kind of thing.”
Isaac Streetman continued to make strides with his music as he played his usual fair for the festival goers that were treated to the familiar tunes of Elvis, Johnny Cash, and many more. Unlike at previous performances, the entirely of the Isaac Streetman band performed.
According to the ExploreGeorgia website, Welsh f ests are held throughout the world, but Rockmart’s WELSHfest is the only one in Georgia. Wales is a country in southwest Great Britain known for its distinct language, rugged coastline, and Celtic culture.
The weekend also included a Friday night hymn singing at the historic Van Wert Church, and tours were also part of the agenda on Saturday of the church and grounds. Additionally, bike rides and more.