Sorghum Syrup--Sweet Enough to Have Its Own GA Festival

The annual Sorghum Festival held in Blairsville, Georgia each October always draws visitors from all over the country. But, not surprisingly, people unfamiliar with the festival may need to ask, "What is sorghum?"

Though the name may not be easily recognized, sorghum is sweet, dark syrup that has been made in Appalachian regions for many years. Of course, Blairsville residents claim that there is no sorghum comparable to that grown in North Georgia. And truly, this pioneer breakfast staple is at its best when served on hot homemade biscuits.

Now don't think that you'll visit this famous festival, buy your token jar of syrup, take it home, and have to bake your own biscuits. No, for among the famous Sorghum Festival concessions are southern style biscuits. And if you just can't get enough of this combination, there's even a "Biskit Eatin'" contest each Saturday and Sunday at noon. Other signature contests with rural flare include "Greased Pole Climbin'" and "Rock Throwin'."

Though these competitions may seem to poke fun at old-fashioned fun, this festival is far from a mockery of simpler times in rural Appalachia. Indeed, it is a celebration of this area's rich heritage. Since one of the first crops most early settlers planted was sorghum, the annual fall harvest of this sweet treat was truly a joyful time. That spirit of celebration still permeates this festival, Blairsville's modern day tribute to the early settlers, their admirable endurance, and their appreciation of the simple life.

This year's Sorghum Festival will be held in Meeks Park on October 11^th, 12^th, 18^th, and 19^th. For more festival information, visit this website: http://sorghum.blairsville.com/events.aspx, and for info on great North Georgia real estate, visit our own website, www.RealEstateGaMtns.com!