The Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival® is one of the oldest continuous running festivals in the state of Arkansas.
The Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival has something for everyone – food, shopping, arts, crafts, contests, pageants, parade, carnival, games, live music – you name it, it’s probably there. …All in celebration of that symbol of Bradley County – the tomato.
The Festival happens only once a year – so start making your plans to attend. You wouldn’t want to miss it!
A Little History –
Farmers in Bradley County have been raising tomatoes for sale since the 1920s. They chose a variety of tomato that would ship well if picked when the tops of the fruit just barely turned pink.
In 1956, a group of Warren merchants decided to host an event to celebrate the tomato industry and to help promote business in the area. The Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival was born. It has since become a major summertime event!
Since that first celebration in 1956, the Festival has evolved into one of the most well known traditions and respected events in Arkansas. Many people have contributed to the success of the annual event, from those present at that first celebration to the dedicated volunteers today. The Festival Parade and Pink Tomato Beauty Pageants were added in 1957. The All-Tomato Luncheon and Friday/Saturday night live entertainment have always been crowd favorites. Other events have included: Arts & Crafts show, Tomato Eating contest, and 5K Race. Thanks to the vision and creativity of those involved, new attractions are added each year.
From a one-evening event, the festival has grown to a week-long celebration, with activities for all ages. The Pink Tomato Festival is now attended by 35,000 people each year from all over the country and even the world! Many are Bradley County natives who come home to be a part of the giant homecoming celebration.
The Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival, held the second full weekend in June, has received state, national, and international recognition. Every Arkansas governor serving since 1956 has attended the festival. The Bradley County Pink Tomato was designated the state’s official fruit and vegetable by the Arkansas Legislature in 1987. The award winning festival has been recognized by leading magazines and television shows, and is well documented each year by the news media.
The Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival has grown and prospered over the years because of the dedication of the many individuals who work together and give their time each year to ensure the event’s success.
For more information about the Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival®,
contact the
Bradley County Chamber of Commerce
104 North Myrtle
Warren, AR 71671
Phone: 870-226-5225
office@bradleychamber.com | pinktomatofestival@gmail.com