Loachapoka – the Syrup Sopping Day Festival in Loachapoka kicks off in a couple of months, bringing a full day of old-fashioned fall fun to Pioneer Park on October 31, 2026.
Hosted by the Lee County Historical Society, this free festival has been a local tradition for more than 50 years and gives visitors a look at life in East Alabama during the late 1800s and early 1900s. One of the biggest attractions is watching sugar cane being milled and fresh cane juice cooked down into syrup over open fires.
Throughout the park, you can also see demonstrations such as blacksmithing, quilting, and other traditional crafts while exploring historic buildings and displays. Live bluegrass and old-time music adds to the atmosphere, and more than 100 vendors fill the grounds with handmade pottery, paintings, photography, jewelry, baskets, woodwork, leather goods, candles, soaps, and more.
Come hungry, because the food is a big part of the day. Early visitors line up for sweet potato and sausage biscuits, while later favorites include camp stew, collard greens, pinto beans, corn muffins, sweet potato fritters, fried pies, barbecue, kettle corn, boiled peanuts and various tasty desserts from local vendors. The festival runs from 8:00 a.m. until about 3:00 p.m., always making for a memorable experience, right here in Alabama.
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