Festival History
The Annual Town of Bolton, North Carolina Pine Tree Festival and Parade: A Celebration of Community and Heritage
The Pine Tree Festival and Parade is a beloved annual event in the Town of Bolton, North Carolina, commemorating the town’s rich history with the Waccamaw Lumber Company and Riegelwood Paper Mill Woodlands Division. Established in October 1999 under the leadership of Mayor Frank Wilson and Alderman Roy Mitchell, the festival promotes ecotourism, unity, and community spirit.
The idea of the festival was born out of a desire to bring the community together and celebrate Bolton’s heritage. Alderman Mitchells vision for “Unity In Our Community” led to the planning and execution of the first Pine Tree Festival and Parade, which has since become a staple of the town’s events.
The festival takes place on the first Saturday in October and features a variety of activities, including:
- A parade through lovely downtown Bolton, North Carolina
- Kidz Korner, providing entertainment and activities for children
- Resource vendors, offering information and services to the community
- Food, craft, and clothing vendors showcasing local talent and cuisine
- Live entertainment, featuring local musicians and performers
Annually on the Friday before the festival, the community comes together for a Free Community Dinner, held on the grounds of the Bolton Senior/Youth Center. This event embodies the spirit of unity and community that the festival represents.
The Annual Pine Tree Festival and Parade has become a significant event, attracting visitors from across the United States who come to support the town and celebrate its heritage. The festival’s proceeds benefit the Bolton Senior/Youth Center, a hub of vital resources for senior citizens, youth, dislocated and displaced workers.
The Bolton Senior/Youth Center “Herbert Riggins Bldg.” is located at 15354 Sam Potts Hwy. Bolton, North Carolina was transformed from an Old ABC store into a thriving community resource, thanks to the dedication of local leaders and citizens. The Pine Tree Festival and Parade continues to be a testament to the importance of preserving local history and heritage.
