Ramp Festival to offer taste of county tradition

The residents of Flag Pond have a tasty heritage, and they’re ready to once again share it with the people of Unicoi County and other folks who come from all around the country to experience it.
There’s an unmistakable smell in the air, as this Saturday, May 14, marks the 26th Annual Ramp Festival, sponsored by the Flag Pond Ruritan Club.
The Ramp Festival has become a long-standing yearly tradition in southern Unicoi County.
This year’s festival continues all the traditions that have come to define the event, including live bluegrass, country, and gospel music, as well as arts and crafts, children’s activities and, most importantly, a unique array of ramp-filled dishes and recipes.
That’s what’s on the menu for Saturday’s celebration, which will kick off at 10 a.m. at the Flag Pond Community Center off I-26 Exit 5, and wrap up at 6 p.m.
Also offered to festival attendees who may not necessarily have a taste for the sweet, delectable plants will be hamburgers and hot dogs, along with a wide variety of drinks and desserts. For the bold at heart, this year’s festival, like those in the past, will feature a ramp-eating contest.
The festival is located at the Flag Pond Community Center. On Interstate 26, take Exit 50, then, follow signs.