Denim Fest returns for Year Three!

Oct 29, 2024

Celebrate Canton’s history at the 3rd Annual Denim Fest, hosted by the Mill on Etowah. This two-day festival on November 1st and 2nd recognizes Canton’s roots in the denim industry, which played a significant role in shaping our City’s identity and prosperity in the early 20th century. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, Denim Fest is a unique celebration that you simply must add to your fall to-do list.

What to Expect at Denim Fest 2024

Denim Fest is filled with activities, live music, local eats, and family fun that make it an unforgettable fall event.

Friday, November 1st – Family Fun Night

Festivities start at 5PM

• Trick-or-Treating: Kids can show off their costumes and trick-or-treat across the Mill's grounds.
• Kids Costume Contest: Little ones can enter the Kids Costume Contest to win a $100 gift card! Be sure to check in at the Denim Fest Info Tent!
• Live Music by Yacht Rock Schooner: Dance and sing along to classic hits and feel-good vibes from this fan-favorite band.
• Food and Unique Vendors: From delicious treats to one-of-a-kind finds, there’s plenty to discover around Denim Fest.

Saturday, November 2nd – Saturday Extravaganza

Festivities start at 9AM

• UGA vs. Florida Game Viewing: Catch the big SEC showdown on the big screen, grab a drink from Reformation Brewery, and join the tailgate atmosphere.
• BBQ Cook-Off: Sample award-worthy BBQ from local restaurants as they compete for the top title! *Additional tasting ticket required.
• Kids Fun Zone and Pop-Up Bars for Adults: While kids enjoy the carnival-inspired fun zone, adults can relax with craft drinks at pop-up bars.
• Live Music and Shopping: Take in live performances throughout the day and explore unique shopping options from local artisans and vendors.

Why 'Denim Fest?'

Denim Fest is a tribute to Canton’s history as the birthplace of “Canton Denim.” In the early 1900s, Canton Cotton Mill No. 1, now The Mill on Etowah, became the epicenter of denim production, sparking an economic boom that brought prosperity to the community. In 1958, the original Denim Days Carnival commemorated Canton’s denim success, bringing people together for a day of camaraderie, games, and celebration. Denim Fest continues this legacy, celebrating over a century of community spirit and looking forward to Canton's bright future. To learn more about Canton's history as a global hub for denim production, be sure to visit the Cherokee County History Center in Downtown Canton!

Credit: History Cherokee

Bringing the Heat: The Ultimate BBQ Cook-Off

You definitely don't want to miss out on the annual BBQ Cook-Off, where some of the area’s top pitmasters go head-to-head for the ultimate BBQ bragging rights! A Denim Fest staple, this year's cook-off brings six local favorite BBQ joints together to showcase the best flavors in the business. Ticket holders get to sample six barbecue dishes, two BBQ-inspired desserts, and one Denim Fest specialty cocktail or mock-tail. After sampling everything, they'll cast their vote for the best BBQ in town. Get your tasting tickets HERE before they sell out!

This year's competitors:

Bryan Choate - Choate BBQ

Chrissy Hutto - The Smokin' Texan

Jason Tomberlin - KT's BBQ

Ethan Hoke - 'Cue Barbecue

Keith Kendrick - Big Easy BBQ

Todd Hogan - Blue Jean Barbecue

Important Details

• Free Admission: Entry to Denim Fest is free for all, inviting everyone to join the celebration.
• BBQ Cook-Off Tasting Tickets: Purchase tickets to the BBQ Cook-Off to taste what's on offer and participate in the voting. Tickets are limited, so grab yours early HERE—last year’s BBQ tickets sold out quickly! Each ticket includes six BBQ dishes, two BBQ-inspired desserts, and one Denim Fest specialty cocktail or mock-tail.
• Costume Contest Check-in: Be sure to check in for the Kids Costume Contest at the Denim Fest Info Tent for your chance to win a $100 Gift Card!


Denim Fest is just around the corner, and we’re gearing up for a weekend of great food, family fun, and community spirit! Come on out to the Mill on Etowah, and let’s celebrate everything that makes Canton special. To learn more about Denim Fest, CLICK HERE. We'll see you there!

Author

Michael Loizou

Digital Content Specialist; City of Canton, GA

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